The New Milford Board of Education has voted to end the mask mandate in schools when the statewide requirement ends, presumably on February 28th. Masks will become optional in New Milford schools starting March 1st. The decision by the Board was unanimous. Some concerns were raised about attitudes towards those who chose to still mask up and the Board discussed that at length, including protocols in the individual schools as far as respecting those who make a different decision.
The Board of Education voted last night to get rid of the mandate requiring staff vaccination and/or weekly testing. The school volunteer policy will revert to November 6, 2018 language that does not require vaccination and/or testing for volunteers. Each of these measures take effect today.
New Milford's Superintendent is outlining some guidance moving forward. The schools will be leaving partitions in place in classrooms where small group instruction is taking place, as well as in the cafeterias, until updated guidance is released from the State. If there is no recommendation, Alishia DiCorpo says they wll remove the partitions over the April break.
Some mitigation strategies will remain as they assess the impact of the transition to a mask optional environment. During the first few days and weeks of March, the administration, faculty, and staff will be assisting students as needed as they navigate the transition. They are hoping to provide a respectful environment where students feel safe.
District officials are asking students and staff to self-monitor symptoms and isolate/test at the onset of COVID symptoms. Proper handwashing and covering of the mouth and nose when sneezing and coughing will be promoted. New Milford Schools will continue to provide masks to those staff members or students who request them and to provide at-home tests as needed while supplies last.
Faculty and students should continue to report positive test results to their school nurse and/or administration. Parents are asked to contact the school nurse to let them know if a child is fully vaccinated for COVID-19.
