Mask Policy

Face coverings will become optional, indoors and outdoors, on NYC public school grounds and on school buses, for all K-12 students and staff with a few exceptions.

Please note that while wearing a face covering will no longer be required, anyone who chooses to wear a mask may continue to do so.

Face coverings are still required or recommended in the following scenarios:

• Face coverings after return from 5-day isolation: Anyone returning on Day 6 after a positive COVID-19 diagnosis or after having COVID-19 symptoms without testing is still required to wear a well-fitting mask at all times on school property through Day 10.

• Face coverings in medical rooms/nurses’ offices: Wearing a face covering is still required in medical rooms/nurses’ offices, as well as in School-Based Health Centers. Nurses will have masks on hand for anyone entering who needs one.

• It is strongly recommended that face coverings be worn when an individual has been exposed or potentially exposed to COVID-19 (in the same room for 15 minutes or longer with a person who tested positive for COVID-19). This face covering should be well-fitting and should be worn for 10 days after the known exposure.

Social Distancing Policy

There are no requirements for social distancing in public spaces, including classrooms, cafeterias and auditoriums, unless a student or staff member is returning from a 5-day isolation. As per NYS guidance, those that are required to still wear face coverings due to returning from isolation should distance, when they have to remove their mask for eating.

Visitor Policy

A face covering is now optional for visitors. All visitors wishing to enter DOE school buildings must continue to show proof of having at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccination, show identification, and complete the daily health screening form.