Baltimore City Schools To Lift Mask Mandate

BALTIMORE, MD — Baltimore City Public Schools will make masks optional on campuses starting March 14.

Face coverings will be optional for visitors and central office staff, effective March 7, according to officials.

The school system announced the change Wednesday, citing federal health guidance.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention changed its recommendations on masks Friday. Based on the new CDC framework, Baltimore City is at low risk of COVID-19, and masking is not recommended.

“Our school system and community have stepped forward in a huge way to reduce the spread of the pandemic," Baltimore City Public Schools Chief Executive Officer Sonja Santelises said in a statement Wednesday.

"The data and guidance from the CDC are clear and unmistakable evidence," Santelises said. "We have followed the advice of health experts, including the Baltimore City Health Department, implemented the proper precautions, and stayed vigilant through the different surges. We appreciate the efforts of our stakeholders, and we will stay cautious and continue to follow the advice of health experts."

Baltimore City lifted its mask mandate in indoor spaces starting March 1.

See Also: CDC Updates COVID Mask Guidelines: What It Means In Maryland

This is breaking news and will be updated.