Phoenixville Area School District

Good afternoon, 

I’m coming to you today to make you aware of a possible change coming for masking in our schools. 

At its February 14^th meeting, the Board determined we can make the move to masks optional/recommended when there is a steady decline in the incidence or positivity rates, and when either of these indicators are out of the high range. The numbers the Chester County Health Department (CCHD) reported last week show a continued drop in both rates (incidence and positivity), and the positivity rate is now in the moderate range.  

If this downward trend continues through this week, we will make an announcement on Friday that we are moving to masks recommended on Monday February 28^th.  

So, what does this mean? 

• Clearly there are a wide variety of strong feelings about masks. In the mask recommended phase I personally will continue to wear my mask when I am in public spaces, and I will encourage our faculty and staff to do the same.

• There may be some classes or areas where masks will continue to be required. I will compare this to the accommodations we now make for severe allergies. We will continue to make necessary arrangements to protect our medically fragile students and staff. If you have an immunocompromised child, and have questions about the change, please reach out to the principal of your child’s building.
• Some extra-curricular events such as indoor sporting events and musicals will continue to require masks for spectators and audience members.
• Per federal guidelines, masks continue to be required for everyone on all District vans and buses.
• All the other protection measures will continue—increased air filtration, social distancing, frequent hand washing, and enhanced cleaning.

We do not know what the future holds. After two years, I know we are all hoping we are moving toward the end of this pandemic. I cannot thank you enough for the way you worked with us to keep our school community safe. It hasn’t been easy for anyone, and I know it has involved significant sacrifice for many. 

As soon as we receive the data from the Chester County Health Department we will announce the plans for Monday, February 28^th. Look for an email from me late on Friday, February 25^th, probably after 5:00 PM, with the announcement and more detailed instructions. We will also be sure to post the information on our website and social media. 

If you have questions relating specifically to your child, please contact the principal of your child’s building, your child’s case worker or school counselor. You are also more than welcome to contact me with any of your questions or concerns. 

While I can’t predict what lies ahead, I do know that together we can continue to do what is best for our kids and our community. 

Thank you, and have a great day.