2/11/2022 --
Dear Medfield Families,
On February 9th, Governor Charlie Baker along with Commissioner of Education, Jeffrey Riley, announced the current mask mandate in schools would not be renewed when it expires on February 28, 2022. In response to this change, the Medfield School Committee voted last night to rescind the current Interim Policy to Address the COVID-19 Pandemic Crisis and implement the following timeline for a “mask optional” environment at our schools.
Grades 9-12 – Medfield High School was granted a waiver in December by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) which allows the transition to a mask optional environment to happen on Monday, February 14, 2022.
Grades PreK-8 – Our PreK-Grade 8 students will transition to a mask optional environment beginning on Monday, February 28, 2022. This is consistent with the recommendations of DESE and MDPH.
As we transition to an optional mask environment, please keep in mind the following:
All mitigation strategies around fresh air (HVAC, air purification, and open windows) and cleaning protocols will remain in place.
Medfield’s vaccination rates for all school-aged groups are greater than 95%.
Symptomatic testing, home antigen testing program, and pooled testing will continue. As we move through the spring, we will assess the effectiveness and necessity of pooled testing.
Masks are still required on all buses. This is a Federal order that may be lifted in the future.
Lunches in all schools will go back to all students in the cafeteria beginning on February 15, 2022. Any specific questions or requests related to lunch should be directed to the building principal.
Masks are no longer necessary for MIAA sports beginning on February 28, 2022.
All of our other current COVID-19 protocols will remain in effect, including students/staff must wear a mask during days 6-10 when returning from a positive test.
It is the expectation that all students, teachers, and staff who choose to keep their masks on will be supported and respected by all members of our school community. Each family has its own unique circumstances and we must support each other.
It has been a challenging two years for everyone and I hope this transition to a mask optional environment will be another positive step forward for our students and the entire school community.
Sincerely,
Jeff Marsden