Utah schools send reminders that face masks are still required
Mar 18, 2021, 10:09 AM | Updated: 12:11 pm
Back to school (Jordan School District)
(Jordan School District)
SALT LAKE CITY — Some charter schools and school districts in Utah are reminding people that face masks will still be required for the rest of the school year.
They say public schools are exempt from the state legislation that ends the state-wide mask mandate on April 1oth.
Schools are under a different statewide order that expires in July.
The Canyons School District posted about it on their website and social media channels.
“The pandemic finish line is in sight, and — as with any marathon — we need to stay the course and keep up our stamina in order to safely put this test of endurance behind us,” said their communication to parents, staff and students.
“Face masks will continue to be required in schools, on buses, and at the District Office after April 10, even for those who have received a vaccination for the novel coronavirus,” said the Canyons information.
The Granite School District sent an email to parents about it, after receiving many questions or concerns about the legislation ending the statewide mask mandate.
They explained that masks will still be required on campus and in school buildings.
“We recognize that many of our employees have had opportunity to receive the COVID vaccine and that data indicates that transmission rates are very low in our schools. Masks along with other safety protocols have helped us accomplish this significant safety achievement. As such, until such time that the Governor and state relinquish that mandate, masks will still be required for all students and staff on school property with previously provided exceptions for specific activities,” said the email.
State officials re-iterated the mask situation on Thursday as well.
We can have that confidence and safety as long as people wear masks at least until we can get everyone vaccinated.
The K-12 mask mandate will stay in place through the end of the school year.
— State of Utah COVID-19 Response (@UtahCoronavirus) March 18, 2021
The Coronavirus Task Force tweeted, “The K-12 mask mandate will stay in place through the end of the school year.”
Related links
School districts still not completely back to “normal”
Endgame bill ends statewide mask mandate on April 10th
CDC: Schools can open safely now
How To Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 Coronavirus
COVID-19 coronaviruses transmitted from person to person. It is a virus that is similar to the common cold and the flu. So, to prevent it from spreading:
- Wash hands frequently and thoroughly, with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds.
- Wear a mask.
- Don’t touch your face.
- Keep children and those with compromised immune systems away from someone who is coughing or sneezing (in this instance, at least six feet)
- If there is an outbreak near you, practice social distancing (stay at home, instead of going to the movies, sports events, or other activities.)
- Get a flu shot.
- Get vaccinated.
Local resources
Utah’s Coronavirus Information
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Utah Coronavirus Information Line – 1-800-456-7707
National Resources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Commonly asked questions, World Health Organization
