Dear Students, Staff and Families,

This morning, Governor Inslee announced a change to the date the statewide indoor mask mandate will lift. Instead of March 21, the statewide mandate – including in schools – will lift at 11:59 pm on March 11. This change is in alignment with announcements this morning by Oregon and California.

This means that beginning Monday, March 14, barring a new requirement from our local health department, masks will become optional in our school buildings and on school buses. Staff and students will have the choice to wear a mask at school, with the expectation that others’ choices will be respected. One should not make assumptions regarding someone’s beliefs or health status, nor should they comment on them. Our district will not tolerate bullying of any kind for those who choose to continue wearing masks. 

For young children, please let teachers know your wishes and they will do their best to reinforce them. Our educators will discuss the change with students in a developmentally appropriate manner, including how to respect others’ personal choice. If your child(ren) expresses any anxiety, please feel free to reach out to our school counselors or psychologists for support.

Until March 14, masks will continue to be required for all students, staff, and visitors in all Ferndale School District buildings and on buses. We are grateful for our community remaining patient and adaptable to changing health and safety guidance as public health experts continue to learn more about COVID-19.

Thank you for your continued flexibility and understanding as we navigate the changing requirements together.

 

Sincerely,

Mark Deebach, Interim Superintendent