Madison Public School Families,
On Feb 7, 2022 Governor Murphy announced that Executive Order 251, the mask mandate for all New Jersey schools, will expire on March 7, 2022. In accordance with this decision, and in consultation with the Madison Health Department, MPS will make mask wearing in school buildings optional for staff and students effective March 7, 2022. Mask wearing on buses will continue to be required, as mandated by federal order.
MPS recognizes that our school community members will receive this message with mixed responses. The decision to wear a mask or not wear a mask in school will soon become a personal and private matter. Therefore, our students, faculty, and parents should embrace the importance of not drawing attention to whether or not an individual wears a mask once the mandate ends. As part of its ongoing commitment to empowering all students and families, the district will take appropriate action to ensure that no students are treated differently based on their decision to wear or not wear a mask in school.
Should further guidance come forth from the NJDOH, the district will review said guidance with our local health official to refine our safety procedures, as appropriate.
Community members that wish to discuss this decision further are invited to attend the Superintendent Coffee scheduled for Thursday, Feb 10, at 7pm. Zoom and Youtube information will be sent to families via email and posted to the district website in the calendar link.
Thank you for your efforts over these last two years to keep our school community Madison Strong.
Sincerely,
Mark Schwarz
Superintendent of Madison Public Schools