Masks and High Temperatures

June 8, 2021

Effective today, masks outside are optional (this includes for school sports). No one will be prevented from wearing a mask and no one will be required to wear a mask outside.

As per the State’s mandate, masks continue to be required inside for all students and staff.

June 6, 2021 UPDATE

Dear KLSD Community,

This afternoon, both the Governor’s office and the NYS Education Department have confirmed to all public schools in the State that existing rules about masks remain in place for now.

As a result, KLSD’s mask rules remain in place. As I wrote in yesterday’s letter, due to the heat, mask breaks will be extended and more frequent. I again encourage all students to dress appropriately for the heat and to bring water bottles that can be refilled in school.

I recognize the potential frustration caused by this apparent back and forth in communication from our State. Thank you in advance for understanding and for continuing to work as collaboratively as you have throughout the pandemic with our school staffs. As soon as we have additional information, I will be in touch again.

Yours,

Andrew Selesnick, Superintendent of Schools

June 5, 2021

Dear KLSD Community,

Late on Friday afternoon, a letter from the NYS DOH to the CDC about the wearing of masks in schools became public and started to receive media attention. I’ve attached that letter for your information.

As you can see, NYS DOH is letting the CDC know that it is planning to adjust its guidance to schools about masks as soon as Monday. Importantly, the letter itself is not yet new guidance to schools. If and when we receive that guidance from NYS, I will let you know.

If new guidance does not arrive before Monday, given high temperatures this weekend and into next week, our staff know that mask breaks should be longer and more frequent, particularly when students are outside and/or engaged in any kind of physical activity. Please let your children know that if they experience any discomfort, they should let a staff member know. They will be given a break, in a cooler spot if possible.

Be assured that we will do all we can (in the absence of air-conditioning) to mitigate indoor temperatures – lights off, doors open, shades down, etc. I encourage students to dress appropriately for the warm weather and to bring water bottles that can be refilled in school.

We are looking forward to the many culminating and celebratory events of the final weeks of this school year. It wouldn’t be 2020-21 if there weren’t some last-minute wrinkles.

Take care,

Andrew Selesnick, Superintendent of Schools