Central Bucks Updates Mask Policy Following New CDC Guidance

DOYLESTOWN, PA — The Central Bucks School District is updating its masking policy to reflect new guidance issues by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The federal agency announced last week that fully vaccinated people do not need to wear a mask in most situations.

In response, Central Bucks school administration has updated its masking policy, allowing students to remove their masks if they are overheated. Students are encouraged to inform their teachers if they feel overheated, and teachers will employ "common-sense strategies" to help students feel safe and comfortable, Superintendent Abram Lucabaugh said in a letter to Central Bucks families issued Monday.

Students will also no longer be required to wear a mask outdoors even if they are not socially distanced. This comes one week after the district said students could only remove their masks outdoors if they were six feet apart.

Graduating seniors do not have to wear a mask during the commencement ceremony, Lucabaugh said. High school administrators are currently finalizing graduating communications for distribution this week, he added.

Students who are currently attending school under the modified quarantine protocol must remain masked at all times, except when eating or drinking.

"Given the volume of new information that has been provided to the district and our families over the past two weeks, we ask for your patience as we navigate this emerging guidance while keeping focus on our goal of a return to full-day in-person instruction in the 2021-2022 school year," Lucabaugh said.