March 4, 2022
Dear UACHS Community,
Our Governor Phil Murphy signed Executive Order (EO) 251, which mandated masking in the indoor premises of all school buildings. The EO became effective on Monday, August 9, 2021 and has been in effect for the 2021-2022 school year. Noting the significant decline of statewide COVID-19 metrics, Governor Phil Murphy on February 7th announced that masks and facial coverings will no longer be mandated for students, staff, or visitors in schools and childcare centers effective March 7, 2022.
Absent a universal masking mandate or policy our school will allow students, staff, parents, and visitors to make the personal choice to wear a mask or not while in the school. People may choose to mask at any time, without any type of negative repercussions. The school will continue to practice other appropriate safety measures, including but not limited too social distancing and regular cleaning/disinfecting protocols. However, please keep in mind that the immunocompromised, people with symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19 should wear a mask.
Please be advised that facemasks will be required in the following circumstances:
- During periods of elevated community transmission (CALI Score High or Very High)
- During an active outbreak
- After returning from isolation or quarantine for days 6-10
- When an illness occurs in school (Student/Staff)
Moreover, we will continuously review local data and pivot to mask wearing should the need arise as recommended by current guidance. Currently, Hudson County is considered Low (Green) by the CDC for the level of Covid in the Community and the CDC recommendation is to stay up to date with vaccines and to get tested if you have symptoms.
Yours in education,
Mr. Erie Lugo, Jr.
Principal