June 7, 2021
Dear Springfield Public Schools Community,
In the media briefing held this afternoon (see the transcript here: https://nj.gov/governor/news/news/562021/approved/20210607b.shtml ), Governor Murphy announced “School officials are empowered to relax masking among students and staff in their buildings given extreme weather conditions.”
Based on this guidance, and with the expectation that rising summer temperatures may create extreme conditions, effective Tuesday, June 8, 2021, Springfield Public Schools is relaxing our masking requirements for all outdoor activities and spaces that do not have air conditioning for the remainder of the school year. Staff and students are required to wear their masks during any passing periods and when entering and exiting the buildings.
It is important to note that Governor Murphy also noted that the pandemic is not over. We remain committed to the health and safety of our staff and students. It is also important to note that our students in prekindergarten through grade 5 have had not had the opportunity to be vaccinated, making masks still essential to protect their health.
Thank you for your continued patience and understanding.
Sincerely,
Rachel Goldberg