DOE Updates Outdoor Mask Policy for NYC Public Schools

We have an important update regarding our outdoor mask policy for City public schools.

Beginning on Monday, February 28, 2022, masks or face coverings are optional for students, staff members, and visitors when outside on school grounds.

Please understand that masks or face coverings will still be required for all students, staff members, and visitors inside schools—we have not adjusted our indoor mask policy. Going forward, we will continue to maintain strict COVID-19 protocols, including increased ventilation, distancing when possible, a daily health screener to make sure those with symptoms do not come to school, and test kit distribution.

As a reminder, vaccination is the best tool we have to fight COVID-19 and to keep our schools safe for all our students. Children ages five and older are eligible to be vaccinated against COVID-19. If your child is eligible, but not yet vaccinated against COVID-19, you can make an appointment for vaccination via the City’s online Vaccine Finder or by calling 311 to find a vaccine site near you. The vaccine is free for all New Yorkers, regardless of immigration or insurance status.

On behalf of the NYC Department of Education, we thank all of you for your continued partnership.

Photo by Bruna Saito. Used under Creative Commons license. Original can be found on Pexels.