COVID-19 is transmitted through respiratory droplets. These droplets are released when coughing, sneezing, speaking loudly, singing, and during physical activity, although not exclusively. A mask acts as a barrier and can significantly decrease the amount of respiratory droplets released into the air. While it is not a perfect barrier, it is one of the best tools we have to prevent the spread of the virus.
All staff must wear a mask when entering/leaving any building. If your desk is separated from your coworkers by at least 6 feet or appropriate shields have been installed, you do not have to wear a mask at your desk. When you are not at your desk or workspace, you must wear a mask. When you are in common spaces, including hallways and other offices, you must wear a mask. When you are in a classroom, you must wear a mask.
Employees and students can wear homemade or purchased cloth face coverings or surgical masks. The right fit is important. Masks must cover both the nose and mouth without any gaps on the sides. Cloth masks should be washed daily. Exhalation masks, neck gaiters and bandanas are not acceptable masks for employees or students. Plastic face shields may be worn but you must wear a mask when wearing a plastic face shield.
Children older than 2 years old can safely wear masks throughout the school day, including children with asthma. Hands should be washed before placement of a mask. Touching the face should be avoided while wearing a mask. Wash hands before removing the mask and avoid touching the front of the face covering by taking it off from behind. Wash hands again after the mask has been removed.
Small children may need help getting used to wearing masks all day. Mask endurance is a new term used to describe the ability to wear a mask for prolonged periods of time. Initially, it may be necessary for K-5 teachers to offer “mask breaks” periodically while mask endurance is being developed. It is preferable to offer mask breaks outside while still maintaining social distancing. If children are indoors, it is preferable that windows be open whenever possible, particularly during mask breaks. Mask breaks should only be allowed when students are seated at their desk, during quiet reading time or when students are not speaking. Teachers may consider having alternate rows lower masks, then switching.
In order to make the indoor classroom setting as safe as we possibly can, mask wearing is mandatory at all times. It may sometimes be difficult for children to stay 6 feet apart. Masks can help prevent the spread of the virus. Additionally, masks will also help prevent young children from spreading germs by touching their nose and mouth. Mask wearing is a simple and effective measure we can take to help keep our children and staff safe.
For a particularly compelling look at the efficacy of wearing your mask, the following YouTube video is just under 2 minutes and worth sharing: