Hillsborough Schools Undecided On Masks As Delta Variant Hits NJ

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — Administrators in the Hillsborough Township School District are still mulling over questions surrounding masks and other reopening plans as the new school year nears.

"We are aware of the guidance which has been issued by the CDC and the statement by the Governor. As we have done throughout the pandemic, we will be evaluating the guidance in conjunction with the district physician and Department of Health and will then advise accordingly. We appreciate the community's patience and understanding as we continue to navigate this ever-changing landscape," said Hillsborough School Spokesman Michael Callahan.

As the delta variant spurs a sharp increase in COVID-19 cases across the country, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Tuesday recommended that people who are vaccinated and in areas at high risk for the coronavirus wear masks indoors.

On Wednesday, Gov. Phil Murphy and state Health Commissioner Judy Persichilli followed the CDC's recommendation and announced they "strongly recommend" masking in indoor settings for both vaccinated and unvaccinated residents due to increased risk. Read More: NJ Updates Mask Guidance After CDC Announcement

"Our metrics are trending in the wrong direction, and new data suggests the Delta variant is more transmissible even among vaccinated individuals, which is why we are making this strong recommendation," said Murphy and Persichilli in a joint statement.

Speaking during a news conference Monday, Murphy said he's not backing down on his stance that schools need to return to a fully in-person, five-day a week format in the fall. And while the state is not mandating the use of masks among unvaccinated students, school districts can choose to go beyond what the state is recommending, he said.

• See related: NJ Mask Mandates Guided By 'Local Realities,' Gov. Says
• See related: Delta Variant Continues Spread Despite NJ Vaccination Compliance

During the July 19 Board meeting, Superintendent Dr. Lisa Antunes presented a proposed school reopening plan for the fall.

In the presentation, Antunes says the district is planning to reopen for five full days a week with lunch.

As for masks, the district says "Masks should be worn indoors by all individuals (age 2 and older) who are not fully vaccinated. Consistent and correct mask use by people who are not fully vaccinated is especially important indoors and in crowded settings, when physical distancing cannot be maintained."

• Want to win Six Flags Great Adventure Season Passes? Here's how.

Currently, masking is required on school buses at all times and in hallways while changing classes

The next Board of Education will be held on Aug. 23 at 7:30 p.m. at Auten Road Intermediate School Cafetorium, 281 Auten Road in Hillsborough.

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.

Get Patch breaking news alerts sent right to your phone with our new app. Download here. Don't miss local and statewide announcements. Sign up for Patch alerts and daily newsletters.