BROOKLINE Superintendent Linus Gillory Jr. has announced that Brookline’s Public Schools will be moving to a mask-friendly model.
Beginning Monday, masks will be optional for students and staff in all public school facilities, except for those in school nurses’ offices. Schools will continue to use mitigation strategies, including home and symptomatic testing, until April.
The mask-friendly approach is in line with the Town of Brookline’s move to lift its mask mandate beginning tomorrow. The decision was made after a review of COVID-19 data, including hospital admissions and capacity, as well as data on vaccine and testing resources.
Commissioner Reiss also consulted the Brookline Advisory Council on Public Health on March 7, to get input from residents.
Businesses and other facilities may still need masks. Brookline Department of Public Health encourages everyone living in Brookline to have a mask-friendly environment.
Residents are reminded to mask all persons, regardless of their vaccination status, while using public transportation and rideshares and in healthcare facilities, including congregate settings, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Indoor masking is strongly recommended for anyone who has not been vaccinated. This includes children under 5 years old, those with a weak immune system, and those at greater risk for severe illness due to age or underlying medical conditions. It is strongly recommended for anyone living with someone with a weak immune system or at higher risk for severe illness.
Residents are reminded that the best way to protect yourself, your loved ones, and yourself from COVID-19 is to get a booster and a COVID-19 vaccination. This vaccine continues to pose a serious threat to severe illness to those who have not been vaccinated. Visit: https://vaxfinder.mass.gov/.
