This week, Governor Newsom issued a news release stating that California, Washington and Oregon will sunset the mask requirement for students at school at the stroke of midnight March 12. For our students, that means Monday, March 14, will be the first day that masks will not be required at school.

The new guidance makes face coverings at schools a strong recommendation rather than a requirement regardless of vaccination status. This allows individuals and families to make the decision they feel is right for their specific circumstances. According to the CDC, people who are at higher risk for COVID-19 may still want to continue the precaution of wearing a mask. Those preferring to continue wearing a facial covering are encouraged to do so.

It was two years ago, March 13, 2020, that we were told to close schools for a couple of weeks to address the impacts of COVID-19. It appears that we are transitioning from a pandemic approach to an endemic approach, meaning we will learn to manage COVID-19 rather than attempt to eradicate it.   

I recognize this is a welcome change for some and concerning for others. As we have done from the beginning, we will adhere to the health department requirements. If the requirements change, we will abide by them and inform our families and staff.  

We will do our due diligence to keep staff and students safe. We will continue to encourage vaccinations within our community, as our health experts indicate that is the best strategy for mitigating the effects of COVID-19. It is reassuring to know that our county boasts a 90.3% vaccination rate of those aged 5 and over, with our own workforce having a 98% vaccination rate.

There is a free vaccine clinic happening at Rolling Hills Middle School on Wed., March 9, after dismissal. For more vaccine locations in Santa Clara County, go to sccfreevax.org or call 2-1-1.