The July 1, 2020 order from the Pennsylvania Department of Health mandates the wearing of face coverings for all students and staff in public schools. This order was updated on August 17, 2020.
As this is a Pennsylvania Department of Health order, wearing face coverings will be strictly enforced through the respective Student Handbook practices of each school.
WHAT IS A FACE COVERING?
The Pennsylvania Department of Health defines a “face covering” as a covering of the nose and mouth that is secured to the head with ties, straps or loops over the ears or is wrapped around the lower face. A “face covering” can be made of a variety of synthetic or natural fabrics, including cotton, silk or linen, and, for the purposes of the order, can include a plastic face shield that covers the nose and mouth. “Face coverings” may be factory-made, sewn by hand or improvised from household items, including but not limited to, scarves, bandanas, t-shirts, sweatshirts or towels. While procedural and surgical masks intended for health care providers and first responders, such as N95 respirators, would meet these requirements, these specialized masks should be reserved for appropriate occupational and health care settings.
WHO IS REQUIRED TO WEAR FACE COVERINGS AT SCHOOL?
According to the Pennsylvania Departments of Health and Education, children two years and older are required to wear a face covering unless they have a medical or mental health condition or disability, documented in accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act or IDEA, that precludes the wearing of a face covering in school. Accommodations for such students should be made in partnership with the student’s health care provider, school nurse and IEP/504 team. The district will ask for medical documentation.
WHEN ARE FACE COVERINGS REQUIRED? WHEN CAN THEY BE REMOVED?
Students may remove face coverings only when eating or drinking when spaced at least six feet apart, when wearing a face covering creates an unsafe condition in which to operate equipment or execute a task or when at least 6 feet apart during “face-covering breaks” to last no longer than 10 minutes. Face coverings must be worn at all other times.
ARE STUDENTS TO PROVIDE THEIR OWN FACE COVERING?
Yes. Students are to bring their own face coverings to school every day. We encourage families to send their children to school with an extra face covering. Younger students can make their face covering their own by selecting the fabric, color or pattern they like best.
HOW TO WEAR A FACE COVERING
Wash or Sanitize Your Hands Before Putting On A Face Covering
Put It On Over Your Nose And Mouth And Secure It Under Your Chin
Try To Fit It Snuggly Against The Sides Of Your Face
Make Sure You Can Breathe Easily
Do Not Touch Your Face Covering While Wearing It
If You Touch Your Face Covering, Wash Or Sanitize Your Hands Immediately
Use The Strings Or Ear Loops To Adjust Your Face Covering While Wearing
HOW TO REMOVE A FACE COVERING
Face Coverings Can Only Be Removed In The Instances Outlined By The Pennsylvania Department Of Health’s Order (See Page 1 Of This Document)
Untie The Strings Behind Your Head Or Stretch The Ear Loops
Handle Only By The Ear Loops Or Ties
Fold Outside Corners Together
Do Not Touch Your Eyes, Nose Or Mouth When Removing Your Face Covering
Wash Or Sanitize Your Hands Immediately After Removing Your Face Covering
When Removing Your Mask When Permitted To Do So During The School Day, Store Your Mask In A Safe Place, Like A Paper Bag, Book Bag, Pocket, Or On A Sanitized Lunch Table
Wash Reusable Face Covering After Use
Never Share Face Coverings!
PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT
We strongly encourage families, especially those with young children, to start practicing wearing and removing a face covering now. We understand that wearing a face covering may be uncomfortable for children. However, we believe practicing and gradually increasing the time children wear face coverings now will better prepare them for the school day. It is essential that our younger students know how to put on and remove the face covering independently so that an adult does not need to touch your child’s face covering.
Sources: PA Department of Health, PA Department of Education, CDC