The CDC recently issued updated guidance regarding mask-wearing for K-12 schools that states “given new evidence on the B.1.617.2 (Delta) variant, CDC has updated the guidance for fully vaccinated people. CDC recommends universal indoor masking for all teachers, staff, students, and visitors to K-12 schools, regardless of vaccination status. Children should return to full-time in-person learning in the fall with layered prevention strategies in place.”
As we had communicated previously, we have been monitoring the level of spread of COVID in our local community and this past week, Berks County has moved into the “substantial” level of transmission, as defined by the CDC. Given this new information, our Board approved an update to our District Health and Safety plan at the August 16, 2021 meeting which reflects that masks will be REQUIRED for all students, staff and visitors in our Wilson School District buildings while our county is in a substantial or high level of COVID. Therefore, masks will be required for all students and staff in the Wilson School District, regardless of vaccination status, effective immediately, in all our district indoor spaces, including district transportation and child care facilities.
We realize that this change in masking requirements may cause your family to make a change to your previous decision regarding a virtual option for your student for the 2021-2022 school year. If you have not completed the Wilson Virtual Academy (WVA) interest form and would like to enroll your student in WVA for the start of the school year, please contact Jessica Knott at knojes@wilsonsd.org no later than Thursday, August 19, 2021. If you already completed the interest survey, please expect a phone call from your building secretary to confirm your student’s mode of instruction for the school year. During this call, you may change your selected mode of instruction if desired.
Be assured that our Health and Safety Plan indicates that the district will continue to maintain close communication and coordination with officials at the Berks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU) and state Department of Health throughout the school year. We are committed to making recommendations to our board for updates to our plan as needed.
Thank you for your continued support of the Wilson School District. As always, the health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.