In light of the most recent recommendations for schools as the prepare to re-open, schools throughout the Commonwealth are considering how they will handle updated recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that advocate for face masks for all students, whether or not they have been vaccinated. The recommendations are in response to a surge in new cases spawned by the highly contagious delta variant.

In an interview with the PennLive/The Patriot-News editorial board on Wednesday, August 4th, PA Acting Secretary of Health Alison Beam said the state is following the CDC’s lead and is recommending schools require face masks. The state is also weighing whether to make additional recommendations to help ensure student safety while keeping schools open.

Beam also stressed the importance of measures such as social distancing. And, although still being finalized, the state is looking to provide for quick testing of students and staff with the goal of heading off outbreaks that could close schools. School district participation will be optional, and the federal government will provide the funding.

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