Griffin-Spalding County Schools will not require masks for the 2021-22 school year, the district announced Monday.
The district will continue COVID-19 mitigation efforts including three-foot physical distancing and sanitization of large areas, according to the announcement. Many schools have been outfitted with filtration systems in HVAC units and touchless water fountains with water bottle filling stations to mitigate the spread of viruses. These installations are ongoing.
Masks will not be required in any capacity, though students can choose to wear them, Laura Beaber, communications specialist for the district, said.
The decision comes after an administrative retreat with 95 Griffin-Spalding administrators gathering at Griffin High School, the announcement states.
The school year begins Aug. 4, according to the district’s website, less than a week after a district-wide open house.
“We look forward to reconnecting with our students and families,” Superintendent Keith Simmons stated. “I encourage families to participate in the open house activities as we will be providing resources and information to ensure a smooth start to the school year.”