Schools In Tough Spot Over Masks Says Point Beach Superintendent

POINT PLEASANT BEACH, NJ – Earlier this week, the CDC declared that Ocean County was one of seven New Jersey counties to show a “substantial” increase in COVID-19 transmission rate. The CDC also recommended that people who live in these high-risk areas should wear masks when indoors.

In response to these new recommendations, Governor Phil Murphy said that he is still steadfast on all schools in New Jersey returning to a full, normal schedule this fall and that any decisions regarding mask-wearing, including in schools, need to be made by looking at “local realities.”

William Smith, superintendent of schools for the Point Pleasant Beach School District, is happy that the governor is sticking to the plan of full-day school schedules this September but also feels that Murphy has put school leaders in a rough spot.

“I am supportive of the governor’s efforts to return schools to a normal schedule—and I support a continued focus on that priority. It’s what is best for students and learning,” Smith said.

“Over 18 months, school leaders have been forced to take a crash course in community health practices and virus transmission. With school opening just over a month from now, I am hopeful that guidance and policy changes are made with advance warning and the interests of the school community in mind.”