Masks Now Optional In East Greenwich Public Schools

EAST GREENWICH, RI — For the first time since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, East Greenwich students had the option to be bare-faced in class Monday.

After the state mask mandate expired Friday, the district shifted to a mask-optional approach in town schools. Masks are also no longer required on buses.

With mask-wearing now a family choice, Superintendent Alexis Meyer said students need to respect everyone's decision.

"As a district, we are committed to respecting and understanding an individual's/family's choice or need to continue with mask-wearing," Meyer said in a memo to families. "We share collective responsibility for having those discussions with students and reinforcing the expectations of respect and understanding."

Meyer said cases in the district have dropped significantly since January, and East Greenwich has one of the highest student vaccination rates. Around 80 percent of students are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, she said.

"I want to thank the East Greenwich School Committee for their partnership in keeping the safety and well-being of our students, staff, and families safe in the forefront as we worked through all of the changing dynamics of a novel virus," Meyers said. "Additionally, a deep sense of gratitude for our school nurse teachers and building principals that have shouldered much of the work connected to COVID-19 prevention and mitigation strategies."