New York Issues New Mask Rules, Guidance For Schools

Students and educators can finally toss the mask. However, there are still many new rules to follow in terms of masking in New York schools.

On Sunday, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced plans to end the state mask requirement in schools starting on March 2.

Hochul said she made her decision based on the analysis of several key COVID-19 data trends and after consulting with health and education experts, as well as parents, teachers, and school administrators.

"With more New Yorkers getting vaccinated, and the steady decline over the past several weeks in cases and hospitalizations from Omicron, we are now entering a new phase of the pandemic. Because New Yorkers have stepped up, we can confidently remove the statewide mask requirement in our schools," Hochul said. "This is a huge step forward for our kids and communities and I am grateful to the students, educators, and parents for their dedication to keeping us all safe—we've reached this milestone because of your hard work."

With the new masking rule now in effect, New York State issued updating guidance regarding masks in schools.