Mask Policy Shifting For Suburban Philly Catholic Schools

PHILADELPHIA — The Archdiocese of Philadelphia is amending its mask policy at its schools later this month, but only for those in the Philadelphia suburbs.

According to the archdiocese, masks will no longer be required in suburban schools as of Monday, Feb. 28.

Masks will be optional at all Archdiocese of Philadelphia elementary and secondary schools in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery counties on that date.

The decision comes as coronavirus cases decline in the region.

"As part of our continuous monitoring of COVID-19 statistics, we have seen a significant drop in the number positive cases within our school communities over the last two weeks," archdiocese officials said in a letter to the community. "Now, as positive case numbers are declining and the data regarding cloth masks has been updated, we are looking at steps to adjust our plan slowly in order to return to a more traditional school environment while keeping children safe."

Masks are optional for both students and staff.

While suburban schools have the option to use masks, schools in Philadelphia proper do not. This is due to guidance from the city's Department of Public Health, which requires masks in schools.

The archdiocese still recommends masks for certain people, such as those who are unvaccinated or have medical conditions that put them at high risk for severe coronavirus infections. Additionally, students will be required to wear masks for five days while in school after they return following a positive coronavirus test. Masks are also required to be worn on bus transportation, per federal guidance.

The archdiocese will still be taking enhanced safety measures in its suburban schools, such as social distancing, increased ventilation, and enhanced cleaning.

"We will continue to monitor and report COVID-19 cases and if there are case surges within a school building or a county there may be a need to return to the use of masks," officials said. "The further reduction of other mitigation efforts will be considering over time, pending circumstances."

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia is encouraging all students and staff to get vaccinated and booster shots.