Masks
Education news, analysis, and opinion about research and policy on students and staff wearing face masks in school to combat the spread of the coronavirus
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We are no longer updating this page.
School & District Management
Masks Are Coming Off. Who Benefits? Who Is at Risk?
After nearly two years of COVID-19-induced restrictions, millions of people—including students and staff in K-12 schools—are ditching masks.
States
States Are Dropping School Mask Requirements. Here's the Latest and What's Ahead
By the end of this week, only five states and the District of Columbia will still mandate universal masking in schools.
Federal
What the CDC's Relaxed Mask Recommendations Mean for Schools
Federal officials adopted new metrics that will give districts the green light to end mask mandates in a broad swath of the country.
School Climate & Safety
In Their Own Words
'COVID Is Not Over Us': As Pandemic Lingers, a Texas Mother's Dismay Deepens
A mother describes her frustrations over masking policies, staffing shortages, and the quality of education her honor roll son has received.
Federal
CDC Plans Update to Indoor Mask Guidance. How Could That Apply to Schools?
The CDC will soon update its general masking guidance, but has yet to say how any changes will affect recommendations for schools.
States
What's Up With Mask Requirements in Schools? 6 Things to Know
There's been a flurry of recent activity around masks in schools. Here's what you need to know.
Law & Courts
Fla. Districts That Required Masks Could Face $200 Million Punishment
School districts say they tried to keep students and their families safe when they required students to wear masks last year.
States
Four States to End School Mask Rules. Will Others Follow?
Educators await decisions from their governors about whether to continue universal mask requirements in schools.
Student Well-Being
What the Research Says
When Can Schools Get on the Mask 'Off-Ramp'? 4 Questions to Consider
As the latest pandemic wave recedes, education leaders have new considerations for universal masking policies. Here's what the research says.
School & District Management
In Their Own Words
'You Shouldn't Be Alone': A Superintendent Scrambles to Find Masks After the State Falls Short
The superintendent of a rural district spends hours scrolling online mask vendors after the state sent defective masks to schools.
School & District Management
How the Evolving Science on COVID Precautions Puts District Leaders in a Bind
For principals and district leaders, trying to keep schools open during the ever-evolving pandemic can be complex and a source of friction.
Budget & Finance
Schools Are Scrambling to Find Effective and Affordable Masks
High-quality masks can be expensive and scarce, with districts even competing to find and secure them for students and staff.
Law & Courts
In a Major Ruling on School Masks, Federal Judge Sides With Vulnerable Students
The ruling that a Texas ban on mask mandates discriminated against students with disabilities could reverberate elsewhere.
Law & Courts
Schools in Most States Are Shielded From COVID Lawsuits. It May Not Help
Many states ban such suits, but just the threat can wreak havoc. Some districts have already lost insurance coverage for COVID claims.
