Tuesday, August 10, 2021
With the COVID-19 pandemic continuing to impact communities across the nation, the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, in consultation with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, recently published updated guidelines for returning to in-person instruction in the 2021-22 school year. The DPI strongly recommends using the guidance when planning and putting mitigation measures in place.
Among the many recommendations outlined in the guidance, the DPI strongly recommends all students older than 2 years, and all school staff wear face masks while at school -- regardless of vaccination status -- unless medical or developmental conditions prohibit use.
“As a former Wisconsin school district leader who led a school district through COVID last year, I know many students and families desire in-person learning and a safe return to the classroom this fall,” State Superintendent Jill Underly said. “We want schools open for in-person instruction. And we want to keep kids, educators, and families safe. The joint guidance we are strongly recommending districts follow provides a roadmap for a safe return to in-person school.”
The DPI’s guidance is based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s K-12 school guidance and recommendations, and the DHS’ recently-published Guidelines for the Prevention, Investigation, and Control of COVID-19 Outbreaks in K-12 Schools in Wisconsin. The updated guidance continues on the DPI’s focus on educational and health equity.
The updated guidance contains layered prevention strategies, which provide administrators and local and tribal health departments with factors to consider when deciding to implement or remove prevention strategies in schools. As the upcoming school year starts, maintaining open communication with staff, students, parents, and other community members will be essential to maintaining safe and healthy school environments.
For more information on COVID-19 in Wisconsin schools, visit the DPI’s dedicated webpage at https://dpi.wi.gov/sspw/2019-novel-coronavirus. View the DPI's news release on the updated guidance on its website at https://dpi.wi.gov/news/releases/2021/dpi-covid-guidance-wisconsin-schools.