Clark Schools Relax Mask Wearing Over Mouth, Nose Due To Heat

CLARK, NJ — As temperatures rise, Clark Public Schools will be relaxing their face mask policy for students.

The decision relaxes the complete wearing of masks over the mouth and nose through the end of the school year, June 23, for both indoor and outdoor activities, according to Clark Health Officer Nancy Raymond.

The announcement followed a tweet from Gov. Phil Murphy saying districts can make that decision in cases of extreme heat.

REMINDER: School officials are empowered to relax masking among students and staff in their buildings given extreme weather conditions. pic.twitter.com/oBIjUfBFgT
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) June 7, 2021

Clark Superintendent of Schools Ed Grande said the district would be following Raymond's guidance but students will still have to keep masks on hand in case they are needed.

"Kindly know that the option to wear a mask at any time is in place and that masks must be on our students' bodies (either below the chin or carried) at all times in case they are needed, said Clark Superintendent of Schools Ed Grande.

Raymond also noted that hand washing and social distancing must still be followed. And should disease trends increase and/or change or different guidance is provided by the Governor’s Office and NJDOH, revised policies may have to be implemented.

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