State releases guidance on masks and vaccines for Colorado schools
DENVER (KKTV) - State officials in Colorado announced on Friday they would be following and “clarifying” the CDC’s recommendations for schools.
You can read the latest guidance by clicking here.
“Communities with higher rates of transmission and low vaccination rates should continue to take heightened COVID-19 precautions,” part of the guidance reads. “Local public health still has the authority to enforce local public health orders, which may include quarantine requirements.”
When it comes to any requirements for masks, the state is currently leaving that up to the individual districts and schools along with local public health agencies. However, the state recommends local public health agencies and school districts consider either mask requirements for all unvaccinated individuals or all individuals in schools, especially in higher-risk environments.
“Schools and school districts should ensure that every classroom is a welcome environment for students and staff who choose to protect themselves in this manner,” the guidance adds.
The guidance strongly encourages vaccines for anyone who is eligible.
11 News has included links to the major school districts in the Pikes Peak Region for the latest information:
-Academy School District 20: Some students return on Aug. 16 and all students are back to school starting Aug. 17. Click here for more information from the district including any updates.
Colorado Springs School District 11: First day of school is Aug. 16. Click here for more information from the district including any updates.
Harrison School District 2: First day of school is Aug. 10. Click here for more information on their current plan for students.
Widefield School District 3: First day of school is Aug. 16. Click here for more information from the district on their current plan for students.
Fountain-Fort Carson School District 8: First day of school varies depending on grade. Grades K, 3, 6 & 9 start Aug. 9 with other grades starting on Aug. 10 and Aug. 11. Click here for more information from the district.
Cheyenne Mountain School District 12: Click here for more information from District 12.
Manitou Springs School District 14: School will begin on Aug. 20. Click here for more information from the district.
Lewis-Palmer School District 38: First day of school is Aug. 18. Click here for more information from the district.
El Paso County School District 49: First day of school for K, 6th grade and 9th grade is Aug. 2. First day for all students is Aug. 3. Click here for more information and updates from the district.
Pueblo School District 60: First day of school will be Aug. 17. Click here for more information from the district.
Pueblo County School District 70: School will begin on Aug. 12. Click here for more information from the district.
Woodland Park School District RE-2: First student day Aug. 25. Check with building for daily schedule. Click here to read more on their current plan.
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