Optional Masking Begins March 1 At Fairfax County Public Schools

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA — Amid new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance, Fairfax County Public Schools will introduce optional masking for students and staff.

The CDC updated its metrics for determining COVID-19 community transmission levels. The new metrics for transmission are hospital beds used, hospital admissions and new COVID-19 cases in an area. Fairfax County is classified as having low transmission under the new metrics.

With the change in metrics, staff and parents or guardians of students can make the choice about wearing a mask in schools beginning Tuesday, March 1. Monday will be a transition day to prepare for the change. Masks will remain required for Fort Belvoir Elementary School since it is on a military base, as well as HeadStart and Early HeadStart, per federal requirements.

"The decision to wear a mask or not is a personal one for our staff and families, based on many factors," Superintendent Scott Brabrand said in a message to families. "The FCPS community values our Caring Culture, and we will see that value in action as we treat each other with respect and understanding during this transition."

FCPS said it was encouraged by declining COVID-19 cases and encouraged families to be alert for illness and keep students home when sick.

March 1 also marks the start of a new state law, which requires in-person instruction aside from 10 unscheduled virtual days as well as an amendment for a mask opt-out. The amendment proposed by Sen. Chap Petersen (D-Fairfax) made it through the House and Senate to the governor. The law would have taken effect July 1, but an emergency clause to implement it on March 1 was sought by Youngkin and approved by a House and Senate majority.