CT Back-To-School Plan Coming This Week

CONNECTICUT — The state will release its preliminary fall K-12 back-to-school plan later this week, according to Gov. Ned Lamont.

"We are going to lay out at least a first draft of what we plan to do on Thursday,” Lamont said Tuesday.

State Department of Education Commissioner Miguel Cardona is speaking with school superintendents, parents and teachers about the plan to get their input, Lamont said.

The governor announced on WFSB's Face the State that Connecticut is looking at a 5-day week for K-12 schools.

Guidance will include when mask use is required and how best to conduct bus service.

"We are doing a lot of with distance learning online, but there is nothing like the classroom,” Lamont said.

No mask use among stubborn coworkers

One reader asked Lamont what to do about a coworker who refuses to wear a mask.

"You are obligated to wear a mask that’s our rule," he said. "That’s... the safe office rules."

He said workers should be held accountable for not using masks when they are supposed to, but didn't elaborate.

Mask use is required when social distancing becomes impossible in an office setting, according to the states opening guidelines; a worker wouldn't have to wear one alone in their own office if they are alone, but should wear a mask while walking through a hallway to get to their desk.

Employees who work in a congregate setting like a shared office would have to wear a face mask at their desk. Employees and others can call the state's 211 hotline to report violations.

Lamont reiterated that those who can work from home should continue to do so and businesses that include office setting should consider staggered in-person and telecommuting days for employees.

Wedding dancing

The governor won’t go Footloose on Connecticut and will permit dancing at weddings; still, he strongly recommends against dancing at this time since it by definition makes it difficult to social distance.

The limit for receptions will be around 200 next month, Lamont said. Some people, including his own daughter have decided to cancel their receptions for this year.

Watch the full Face the State interview here.