Hazlet Schools Superintendent Addresses K-12 Mask Mandate

HAZLET, NJ — Hazlet Township Schools Superintendent Scott Ridley addressed the mandate announced on Friday by Gov. Phil Murphy ordering K-12 students to wear masks in school, as well as educators, staff and visitors.

"I understand that this is not the news many community members wanted to hear," Riddley said. "However, as a public institution, we are bound to follow mandates."

The superintendent will be working with the district administrative team to figure out how best to apply the mandate and finalize plans for the upcoming school year. They are considering solutions such as mask breaks, additional outdoor activities and more learning spaces.

The announcement of that plan will happen on or before Aug. 27, Riddley said.

READ: NJ K-12 Students Must Wear Masks This Fall, Gov. Murphy Says

Kids will still be going to learn in the classroom next year.

"Rest assured that the district plans to offer five full days of in-person instruction with lunches being served," Riddley said, adding that the current state mandates "do not allow for a fully virtual learning option in the approaching school year."

He also informed that any parent whose child has difficulty wearing a mask should contact the principal.

"We have many successful strategies available and will work with your son or daughter to conquer his or her concerns," Riddley said.

The new mask mandate does allow for several exceptions, including kids under two years old, when someone has trouble breathing and in certain situations involving high-intensity physical activities, among others.