CDC Revises Mask Guidance, Including Changes for K-12 Schools

This week the CDC revised its guidance for K-12 schools.

In Alaska, decisions on mitigation efforts in schools will continue to be made at the local level. DEED and DHSS are providing information and resources to school districts and communities to support local decision-making.

School districts are building a “Safe Return to In-Person Instruction and Continuity of Services Plan” in order to meet requirements to receive funds under the American Rescue Plan Act. The mitigation plan must address masks, physical distancing, handwashing and respiratory etiquette, cleaning, contact tracing, diagnostic and screening tests, efforts to provide vaccinations, and appropriate accommodations for children with disabilities.

Districts must engage in meaningful consultation with stakeholders when building their mitigation plans, including, but not limited to students, families, school and district administrators, teachers, principals, school leaders, and their unions.

Mitigation plans must be made publicly available on the district’s website and updated at least every six months.

You can find more information and view district mitigation plans at https://education.alaska.gov/backtoschool.