Updated Guidance for Masks on School Buses
February 27, 2022
Dear District #7 families and staff,
On Friday, February 25, 2022, the CDC amended its federal mask order to no longer require that people wear masks on buses or vans operated by school systems when they are carrying out school related business.
In accordance with that regulatory change, effective Monday, February 28, 2022, masks will no longer be required to be worn on school buses that are transporting students for school-related programs. This includes transportation to and from school, athletic events, field trips, etc., when that transportation occurs on a school bus.
The exact language of the change can be found here: https://www.cdc.gov/quara…/masks/mask-travel-guidance.html.
We reiterate what we have said earlier – District #7 remains committed to a culture of respect among all members of our community, and we expect that to remain for everyone, regardless of whether they choose or don’t choose to wear a mask. In addition, we will continue to monitor the number of positive COVID cases and notify families if their child is identified as a close contact of an individual who tests positive. We remain committed to providing all families with an environment in which each student and staff member feels safe to teach and learn.
Also, on Friday, February 25, the Illinois Supreme Court denied an appeal in the legal fight over COVID-19 restrictions in schools. However, the court did vacate the temporary restraining order (TRO) issued by Judge Raylene Grischow earlier this month.
Governor Pritzker has also announced that he is withdrawing the executive order that required students and staff in Illinois schools to wear masks, effective Monday, February 28, 2022, based on the new rules easing mask-wearing issued by the CDC.
Thank you for your patience, understanding, and support as we continue to educate children in the District #7 community, while navigating this ever-changing landscape.
Sincerely,
Patrick Shelton, Ed.D.
Superintendent
