Westfield Schools recommending masks as omicron variant wanes

Editor’s note: The following message was sent by the Westfield Washington Schools administration Friday afternoon.

As we continue to monitor and evaluate the updated COVID-19 information in our community and nationwide, we want to ensure that our policies reflect the current status of the virus. The most recent surge of the omicron variant is past its peak, leaving district and state case numbers on a steep decline. With that in mind, we are prepared to adjust our protocols with the current data.

Effective Monday, February 14, masks will be recommended throughout the Westfield Washington school district. In accordance with the federal mandate, masks will still be mandatory on buses.

We strongly encourage you to monitor your children daily and keep them home if they show any signs of illness – COVID-19 or otherwise. Please continue to notify your child’s school and a medical professional if your child tests positive for the virus. Our buildings will continue mitigation strategies like cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, meeting ventilation standards, distancing when possible and promoting hand washing.

Thank you for your continued support and flexibility as we all get through this situation together.