Stratford schools update mask, quarantine rules

STRATFORD — School officials released updated COVID-19 policies on Saturday, including new guidelines for masking, which makes them optional while on school transportation.

It was previously announced that when the statewide mask mandate lifts on Feb. 28, Stratford schools would make wearing a mask optional in school buildings, but would still be required while on school buses and vans.

On Saturday, Stratford Public Schools Head Nurse Kim Velazquez announced that would no longer be required, meaning students can choose whether or not to wear a mask while on school buses and vans, as long as the community is listed as “low risk.”

Masks must be worn when a student or staff member returns from a five-day isolation period, or for five days once symptoms start. Someone who tests positive will have to wear a mask until day 11 after the onset of the virus. They must also be worn at all school-based health centers.

As part of the transition to optional masking, the state has provided rapid COVID-19 test kits for all students and staff. These test kits will be distributed during the school day on March 2.

Velazquez said the isolation/quarantine and mask protocols are subject to change based on new guidance or conditions within the Stratford community.

Students or staff who test positive must isolate for five days, then must wear a mask at all times when around others for an additional five days, regardless of vaccination status. Those who are not vaccinated must follow this routine if contact is made with someone who has COVID-19, while those who are vaccinated do not have to selfisolate but must wear a mask around others for 10 days.

Velazquez reminded the Stratford schools community to notify the school nurse as soon as you come into close contact with the virus outside of school, or if you test positive.

“This includes a positive case within in the home which will require a fiveday quarantine and a negative COVID test to return to work and school,” Velazquez said.

She said anyone with questions or concerns can reach out to a school nurse, or to her via email at velazquezk@stratk12.org.