Dear SLUSD Community,

Yesterday, the Alameda County Public Health Department (ACPHD) announced the decision to align with the updated state guidance which ended the legally mandated requirement for masking in TK-12 schools. ACPHD is now transitioning to a “strongly recommended” policy due to the dramatically lowered rates of COVID in Alameda County.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, we have looked to ACPHD to inform our district health and safety protocols. After a thorough review of these state and county guideline changes, there is a clear need to continue to align with public health experts in our decision-making. This means masks will no longer be required at district schools or facilities after March 11. However, while not required, masking will be strongly recommended in all school settings, in alignment with public health guidance.

We want to acknowledge that many in our community have been deeply and differently impacted by COVID, and that shifts in guidance can cause stress and concern. We also know you will have questions as we adjust to these changes. Because of this, we ask for your patience and understanding as we integrate this new guidance into our health and safety protocols for the remainder of the school year.

I truly want to thank all of you for the ongoing support and resilience you have shown in keeping our schools healthy, safe, and welcoming. Over and over, you have helped us navigate this challenging time with love and compassion for one another. As we move into this promising new phase of the 2021-2022 school year, I know we will continue to support one another as we have always done in SLUSD.

Sincerely,

Dr. Mike McLaughlin
SLUSD Superintendent