Jan. 25 update: Masks are still required in school

graphic of woman wearing flowered face mask and text: masks are still required
By NYSED ruling, face masks are still required in schools

Dear GF Nation Families:

As the COVID pandemic keeps evolving, we are responding to new developments involving the statewide face mask mandate. 

As you’ve likely heard, a state judge on Long Island has ruled against the state’s mask mandate, but more litigation is expected. All NYS school districts have been contacted by the State Education Department and instructed to continue following the mask mandate in schools and at all school sponsored events.  

Our current understanding is that an appeal has been filed by the NYS Department of Health and a stay has been ordered regarding yesterday’s ruling. As such, we will still be requiring masks for all students, staff, and visitors in school at this time. If something changes, we will let our students, staff, and families know.

We know the pandemic has been exhausting and frustrating for everyone, and we truly appreciate the efforts of our entire school community that allow us to keep educating our students through it all. Thank you! We will provide any updates on this matter as soon as we have them.