Gates Chili Central School District

Gov. Hochul announced Sunday that indoor masking will be optional for schools beginning this Wednesday, March 2. In this announcement, which aligns with CDC guidance released last week, the governor shared that this decision was based on recent trends and data, including:

• 98% decrease in positive cases since the peak in January 2022
• 51 consecutive days of a downward trend of COVID cases
• 7-day average that is currently 1.7% compared to 23% in January
• Sharply declining hospitalization rates for 48 straight days
• High vaccination rates among NYS adults and children

As we make the shift to optional masks, it will continue to be important to keep students home from school if they are sick or showing symptoms of illness.

Regardless of this shift to optional masking, please note that anyone returning to school from quarantine or isolation may still be required to mask for a period of time, as guidance around this has not changed.

We know people's readiness for optional masking will vary. After Wednesday, some people may choose to eliminate masking completely, while others may choose to remain masked in certain situations, and still others may not feel comfortable unmasking at all. Different perspectives may be grounded in health concerns or different beliefs. Please remember that all of these choices are appropriate, and like other choices, it must be free of shame or guilt. To be clear, any type of mask-shaming or associated harassment will not be tolerated neither in person nor online.

If your student prefers to wear a mask, we will continue to make both KN95 and surgical masks available thanks to supplies from the Monroe County Department of Public Health. These masks are accessible to students, staff and visitors, and will be available near main entrances.

Supporting our students through the shift will be critical. For some of our youngest learners, masking is all they've known for school. Regardless of age, we must be prepared to support all and foster a culture of understanding. Please take a moment to encourage your student to seek out a safe adult at school if they have any questions or concerns during their school day.

We appreciate your cooperation during yet another shift in state guidance. We will continue to keep you informed about any further clarification from Monroe County or other important details.