DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — As schools get ready to welcome students back next month, Georgia’s third-largest school district announced it will require masks this fall.
DeKalb County Schools released their new guidelines Monday for back to school, which is set for August 2.
The school district said masks will be required for everyone, regardless of vaccination status, in all school buildings out of an abundance of caution.
“The district will review effective methods to identify students and staff who are vaccinated and will re-evaluate optional mask wearing. Parents are strongly encouraged to consult with their health care provider for the best vaccine options for their family.”
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Mask will also be required for all indoor clubs and after-school meetings. Masks are optional for activities held outside, including athletic events. However, masks will be required in locker and weight rooms.
The new guidelines come a week after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released new guidelines last week for vaccinated students and teachers.
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Students who have been vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus do not have to wear face masks in school this fall unless they are riding the school bus, according to the CDC.
The guidelines also state that students can be required to wear a face mask if a school district decides they are needed. The CDC continues to call for unvaccinated students and staff to wear masks.
In addition, the guidelines say that all school bus drivers and their passengers, whether they are vaccinated or not, need to wear a mask while traveling to and from school.
That is also part of the policy for DeKalb County Schools.
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