After almost two entire years, our state has finally lifted the mask mandate in schools. Whether you will continue to wear masks or take it off, here is an email sent by the district about guidelines we need to follow starting Monday, March 14th:

The Washington Department of Health (DOH) released revised COVID-related health and safety guidance for Preschool through 12th grade. This guidance will go into effect for schools on Monday, March 14, 2022.
While we know that these changes will be welcome for some, for others they may be challenging. However, we have said consistently that we will follow DOH and Public Health – Seattle & King County (PHSKC) guidance when making COVID health and safety decisions.

Below are some of the key takeaways from the new guidance from an email sent from the District’s Community Relations Office earlier this week:
Masks–Staff and students will have the choice to wear, or not wear, a mask at school and on school buses, with the expectation that others’ choices will be respected. One should not make assumptions regarding someone’s beliefs or health status, nor should they comment on them. Our schools will remain safe and inclusive learning and working environments for all students and staff. It is important to note that masks are required in the nurse/health room and isolation room, as these are considered health care settings.

Vaccinations for Employees and Volunteers–Employees and volunteers must be fully vaccinated or have an exemption from vaccination. Accommodations for staff with religious or medical exemptions will remain in effect until further notice.
Exclusion for symptoms–Anyone displaying symptoms of COVID-19 is required to stay home and should get tested.
Diagnostic testing–Schools and central office will continue to provide access to testing for symptomatic staff, students, or families.
Isolation–Anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 must isolate, regardless of vaccination status.
They may return after 5 full days of isolation if they are asymptomatic or their symptoms have improved, AND they are without a fever for the past 24 hours without use of fever-reducing medications.
If returning after day 5, the individual must wear a well-fitted mask for days 6-10 OR test negative with an antigen or at-home test after day 5.
Notification of exposure–Staff and high-risk students must be notified of exposure. Cases will continue to be reflected on the district COVID-19 dashboard.
If exposed to COVID-19, individuals should monitor for symptoms and are encouraged to wear a well-fitted mask for 10 days after the last day of exposure, especially during activities like high-risk indoor sports, performing arts, etc., and are encouraged to get tested 3-5 days after exposure.
We will continue to work with PHSKC to report cases and monitor for possible outbreaks.
Masks required in the nurse/health room & isolation room–As noted previously, masks are required for ALL children, staff, and visitors aged 2 years and older in the nurse/health room and isolation room, as these are considered health care settings.
Physical distancing–Our cafeterias and classrooms will continue to maximize physical distancing to the extent possible.
Ventilation–Our school buildings will continue to use upgraded HVAC systems, including MERV 13 filters.
Handwashing and respiratory etiquette–Hand-washing practices will continue to be encouraged and hand sanitizer dispensers will remain in place.
Cleaning and disinfection–Our custodial team will continue with current cleaning protocols.
Vaccination–We continue to provide opportunities for students, staff, and families to receive COVID-19 vaccines and boosters. The next pop-up clinic is on Thursday, March 24th at Dimmitt Middle School from 4 to 7 pm. Registration is required:
Pediatric vaccination (ages 5-11)
COVID-19 vaccination and booster (ages 12+)
We will continue to collaborate with DOH, PHSKC, and Department of Labor & Industries regarding the new guidance as well as our labor partners as we continue this transition.
Please note: Employees who are at increased risk of severe infection (as defined by the CDC) who wish to seek an accommodation as a result of changing guidance may engage in the ADA interactive process by contacting the Human Resources Department at [email protected].

Additionally, masks will continue to be provided to staff as needed.

The district asks as we move forward, we must remain flexible as we have learned that change has been a consistent theme over the last two years.