DOE Face Covering Policy Update 10-2021

The DOE’s face covering policy has been updated to align with the NYS Commissioner of Health’s determination that all persons entering a NYC Department of Education building must wear a face covering. This policy provides schools with examples of how they can use age and developmentally appropriate strategies to support children towards improving mask tolerance and includes steps to take when children will not wear face coverings (not including children with approved mask exemptions). We are delighted to share that our students have been phenomenal at taking care of themselves and each other by wearing their face coverings.Face coverings must be worn both indoors and outdoors when on DOE school grounds, regardless of COVID-19 vaccine status.

If your child is not medically able to tolerate a mask, please let your school know so that an alternative accommodation can be provided. For questions about the face covering policy, please contact your school.

What Is a Face Covering?

For the purposes of this guidance, a face covering is any well-secured cloth covering or disposable mask that covers a person’s nose and mouth and is worn to reduce the risk of transmission of the virus that causes COVID-19.

• Acceptable face coverings include but are not limited to cloth-based face coverings (e.g., homemade, sewn, or quick-cut masks), and disposable surgical masks that cover both the mouth and nose.

What Types of Face Coverings Are Not Permitted on DOE Property?

• Bandanas and neck gaiters are not permitted.
• Face coverings with an exhalation valve or vent are not permitted as exhalation valves allow unfiltered exhaled air to escape to others.
• Face coverings that completely cover or hide an individual’s face, such as ski masks, are not permitted.
• Unless otherwise approved by school administration, clear face shields cannot be worn unless accompanied by a face covering.

Face Covering Storage and Disposal

Proper removal and disposal of face coverings is important to everyone’s health. Before removing a face covering, you must wash hands and then remove the face covering by its straps. It is important to note:

• Single-use face coverings must be thrown away after use.
• A reusable face covering should be stored with the outer surface folded inward and against itself to reduce contact with other surfaces.
  • Reusable face coverings can be stored between uses in a clean, sealable paper bag or breathable container.
  • Reusable face coverings must be washed regularly.
• Hands should be washed or sanitized after touching a used face covering.

Breaks from Wearing a Face Covering for All Students

• Mask breaks should not last for more than five minutes.
• Mask breaks can only occur when:
  • Students are outdoors or well-ventilated areas.
  • Students can remain at least six feet apart.