Communication from GGUSD

Awaiting Clarification on Mask Guidance

Dear Families,

Yesterday, we shared with you a ParentSquare message announcing the updated California Department of Public Health guidance for K-12 schools that were published on Monday. As a reminder, COVID-19 health requirements are set by state and county health officials and school districts are required to follow the guidance in order to operate for in-person instruction. 

As we mentioned, the guidance states that during the 2021-2022 school year, masks will no longer be required in ANY outdoor settings, but will be required while in the classroom during the school day. CDPH stated that it will reassess conditions and determine no later than November 1 whether to change mask guidelines.  

After the new guidance was announced, a tweet from the California Department of Education was posted stating, “California's school guidance will be clarified regarding masking enforcement, recognizing local schools' experience in keeping students and educators safe while ensuring schools fully reopen for in-person instruction.” Since then, there has been widespread media attention and questions as to what “enforcement” means and what in the guidance will be further clarified. As of today, the state has not clarified and,  like all school districts, we are seeking clarification on exactly what was meant.  We will update families as soon as we know more.   

As always, thank you for your patience. We look forward to welcoming all students back for in-person instruction on August 16.