School Mask Mandate Has Ended
Beginning March 2, the North Syracuse Central School District adopted new masking guidance provided by the New York State Department of Health for Pre-K - 12 schools. Universal masking will no longer be required for students, staff members, or visitors to schools. This includes on school buses. There will be some cases, which are outlined below, when individuals will be required (or strongly recommended) to wear a mask.
Masking is still required when:
- Returning to work or school for days 6-10 post COVID-19 infection. This includes participation in sports and extracurricular activities.
- If a person who tested positive is unable to mask, they must be excluded from school or work for 10 days.
- For 10 days after a known exposure to a COVID-19 positive individual. This includes during school, work, sports, and extracurricular activities.
- Testing is strongly encouraged at least 5 days after the last date of exposure or potential exposure, regardless of vaccination status.
- For those who are moderately to severely immunocompromised. If you are uncertain if you fall into this category, please discuss with your healthcare provider.
Please take note of the following New York State Department of Health requirements that continue to be in effect:
- Any individual who tests positive for COVID-19 is required to isolate for a minimum of 5 days. Release from isolation can occur on day 6 as long as symptoms are improving and the individual is fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication. A well-fitting mask MUST be worn day 6 through 10 in school.
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We have been notified that the NYSDOH and Onondaga County DOH are now accepting home test results for symptomatic students as sufficient proof of being negative for COVID. Parents who wish to test their child with a home test are required to conduct the test and complete the attached attestation form and return it to the school nurse. If a student brings a form to you, please direct them to the school nurse. This form will be provided by the school nurses and posted on our website. https://www.nscsd.org/tfiles/folder3064/Self%20Attestation%20Form.docx%20(003).pdf
- Asymptomatic testing of students and staff continues to be offered weekly for any individuals who would like to test. If you are in need of a test kit, they continue to be available at each school.
- Weekly testing requirements established in 10 NYCRR 2.62, remain in effect for unvaccinated school staff.
Please contact you child’s school nurse with any questions.
Please reinforce the importance of respecting each individual person's right to choose to mask or not from March 2 and beyond. These conversations will assist us in maintaining a respectful and productive learning environment within our schools.
Thank you again for your continued support as we work through the challenges associated with COVID-19.
Click here to view the complete updated guidance from New York State.
Click here to view the New York State School Masking and Testing Guidance FAQ Sheet
