SoWashCo Drops Mask Mandate At High Schools

WOODBURY, MN — Masks are no longer required for students, staff and visitors at high schools in the South Washington County Schools district, though officials are “strongly” recommending they still be worn.

The district lifted its mask mandate for high schools Wednesday, about three weeks after implementing it due to a spike in coronavirus cases among students and staff.

SoWashCo officials reported almost 600 new cases from Dec. 17 to Jan. 6, a period that included the district’s winter break. That three-week period accounted for more than 30 percent of all cases the district had recorded since the start of the 2021-22 school year.

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The mask mandate took effect Jan. 12, with officials warning the “next three to four weeks will present significant challenges" to keep students in class.

Officials said the mask mandate would remain in place until at least Feb. 1, and improving case rates in the district mean it does not have to be extended.

Though the mask mandate has been lifted at SoWashCo high schools, similar measures remain in place at the district’s elementary and middle schools, and students must also wear masks while using district transportation, officials said.

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School officials are urging parents to keep their children at home if they are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19. Parents will be required to take their children out of school if they show two or more related symptoms, officials said.

High school student-athletes, coaches, officials and fans are no longer required to wear masks during competitions, according to the district’s updated health and safety measures.