Dear LUESD Families:
Over the past two years, Kings County School Districts have followed California Department of Public Health (CDPH) guidance and mandates to allow for full in-person instruction in the safest way possible. We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we have come through this pandemic together.
As shared last week, Governor Newsom announced that with declining case rates and hospitalizations in California, the masking guidance has been updated. After 11:59 p.m. on March 11, California will move from mask mandates to mask recommendations in schools. CDPH updated its masking guidance to reflect that after 11:59 p.m. on March 11, 2022, students and staff members in K-12 settings will be strongly recommended, but not required, to mask while indoors.
We know that there are varied opinions about masking. Mask wearing is still strongly recommended and is an option for every student or staff member who wishes to wear one at any time, including school bus transportation. Our schools have masks readily available for staff and students if requested. As we begin to transition from pandemic response into a new chapter where we can use more routine disease control tactics, it is important that we continue with some of the mitigation strategies we are all familiar with, including monitoring symptoms, testing, high-quality ventilation systems, and a focus on personal responsibility and respect. Please be kind to each other and respect each other’s decisions.
Respecting Personal Choice
- Parents and students now have personal choice for masking in schools with the expectation that individual choices are respected.
- One should not make assumptions regarding someone’s beliefs or health status based upon their choice to wear or not wear a mask, nor should they comment on them.
Responsibility
- Students and staff should continue to remain home when sick.
- Students and staff are encouraged to take a COVID-19 test if exhibiting symptoms and/or if they have a known exposure to COVID-19.
Thank you for your dedication and cooperation as we continue to navigate and move forward out of the pandemic. We truly appreciate your patience and understanding as we take every step to preserve the health of EACH ONE of our students and staff while keeping our community as safe and healthy as possible.
Sincerely,
Cheryl Hunt
Superintendent