ISD 196 Recommends Masks For 2021-22 School Year

APPLE VALLEY, MN — Independent School District 196 announced Friday that masks are recommended, but not required, for students during the 2021-22 school year.

As of Wednesday, the CDC and Minnesota Department of Health recommend, but don't require, the following for students:

• Face coverings be worn indoors by anyone age 2 and older, regardless of vaccination status.
• Face coverings be worn outdoors by anyone not fully vaccinated, especially in areas with high transmission rates, in crowded outdoor settings, or activities involving sustained close contact with others not fully vaccinated.

The CDC still requires that masks be worn by those traveling in district vehicles and buses, the district said.

"As we have done throughout the pandemic, the district will continue to follow guidance from the state, but will not require anything not required by the state or other regulatory agencies," the district said. "We will support and communicate the recommendations of public health agencies while allowing families and staff the personal choice on whether to follow the recommendations. Along with CDC and the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) we recommend people to get vaccinated, when eligible."

HEPA filters will remain in schools to help air circulation, and proper hygiene practices and hand washing will be taught, the district said.

According to the district, the COVID-19 decision tree will help determine protocol and next steps for COVID-19 and this upcoming school year.