On Feb. 15, 2022, Dr. Bill Watson, superintendent of the Diocese of Camden’s Office of Schools, sent a memo to all Catholic schools in the Diocese advising principals that masks will be optional beginning March 7, 2022. The announcement followed N.J. Gov. Phil Murphy’s Feb. 7 announcement that the executive order requiring all adults and children inside of New Jersey school buildings to wear a mask at all times will end on the same date.
In his memo, Dr. Watson explained, “South Jersey Catholic Schools have observed the requirements of the executive order because they were specifically named in it. In addition, our assumption has been that the governor is advised by the N.J. Department of Health and others who have expertise to determine whether or not masks are a necessary precaution at a given time.” Dr. Watson noted that the governor’s announcement signaled that the progression of the virus and the level of protection against serious illness from prior infection and vaccination are such that a change in mask requirements is appropriate.
Dr. Watson, as he has since summer 2021, reminded parents that they are strongly encouraged to consider vaccination for their children as protection against serious illness and/or to continue to provide a mask for their children to wear at school. He also offered guidance to parents who would like their children to have the extra protection that a mask offers to use N95 or KN95 masks, instead of a cloth mask.
In his memo, Dr. Watson warned that it is always possible the schools will receive further COVID health and safety guidance from the N.J. Department of Health and Department of Education from time to time, which could include wearing masks under specific circumstances, such as large assemblies or gatherings.
He also reminded all school stakeholders that they must be prepared to adjust again if additional measures, are necessary in the future. “All schools will remain vigilant in maintaining other COVID-19 health and safety protocols, such as distance between students in classrooms and ensuring proper ventilation. Parents will be informed about expectations for students if and when health and safety guidelines change.”
at the bottom and then tap “Add to Home Screen”
