Starting March 14th, students can choose to wear or not wear a mask
This is something that students should be talking about with their families.
Whatever your family decides is the right decision! You and your family know what is best for you.
Why can we choose to take our masks off?
Grown Ups including scientists called epidemiologists (someone who studies disease), school district administrators who make decisions for Portland schools, and people who work for hospitals and other health organizations have decided that it is safe to take off our masks if we want to.
Are there still germs? How can we stay safe with or without a mask on?
There are still germs, but we can be proactive and stay safe with some easy steps!
2. Keep our air filters on & working
3. Stay home if sick
4. Take a covid test if needed
Whoah! This is a big change!
It’s normal to feel scared or worried
WE’ve all been worried about covid for 2 years. Our brains need time to catch up!
We can use our tools such as rainbow breath if we are feeling yellow zone
What if I feel nervous about someone being too close with their mask off?
Politely ask for what you need
Could you please move back a bit for social distancing?
Sure!
Politely ask for what you need
Could you please put a mask on if you want to play with me?
Sure!
It might be hard if someone doesn’t want to play with you when you don’t have a mask on.
Or hard to ask for space if you feel uncomfortable with someone who has their mask off.
It’s OK to choose a different activity or put on a mask if you really want to play with that person.
But we will respect everyone’s decision!
Feeling safe and respected are important at school.