ALBANY, N.Y. Feb. 27, 2022 — New York State United Teachers President Andy Pallotta issued the following statement today regarding the governor’s announcement that the statewide mask requirement for schools is ending:
“We welcome this step toward normalcy. The governor is striking the right balance by empowering local officials to use data to determine if and when the mitigation strategies need to change in their areas. As the guidance changes, one thing must remain constant: It’s essential that districts work closely with educators to ensure there is confidence in their health and safety plans.”
About the Announcement
- Gov. Hochul announced Sunday that New York State's mask mandate for K-12 schools will end Wednesday, March 2.
- County and local authorities will have the option to implement their own mandates if local conditions require.
- Parents may still choose to send their children to school wearing masks.
- New guidance and more details from the state are expected soon.
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New York State United Teachers is a statewide union with more than 600,000 members in education, human services and health care. NYSUT is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers, the National Education Association and the AFL-CIO.