March 9, 2022
Dear Parlier USD Parents:
Over the past two years, the Parlier USD has followed California Department of Public Health (CDPH) guidance and mandates to allow for full in-person instruction in the safest way possible. We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we come through this pandemic together.
As a result of declining COVID-19 case rates and hospitalizations, Governor Newsom and Dr. Mark Ghaly, California Health & Human Services Secretary, announced an update to the masking guidance.
CDPH updated its masking guidance to reflect that after 11:59 p.m. on March 11, 2022, students and staff members in K-12 settings will be strongly recommended, but not required, to mask while indoors. This means that when students and staff report to school on Monday March 14 (or Saturday, March 12 at school activities), mask wearing will be strongly recommended, but is optional for every student or staff member. Our schools have masks available for staff and students if requested. Please be kind to each other and respect each other’s decisions.
● Parents and students now have personal choice for masking in schools with the expectation that individual choices are respected.
● One should not make assumptions regarding someone’s beliefs or health status based upon their choice to wear or not wear a mask, nor should they comment on them.
● Students and staff should continue to remain home when sick.
● Students and staff are encouraged to take a COVID-19 test if exhibiting symptoms and/or if they
have a known exposure to COVID-19.
We will review current COVID protocols and continue to prioritize staff and student safety. With regard to masking, we will align with the CDPH school guidance and include voluntary (but strongly recommended) masking for staff and students, especially in common areas in our schools and facilities.
Thank you for your dedication as we continue to navigate what is hopefully a move forward out of the pandemic. We truly appreciate your patience and understanding as we take every step to preserve the health of our students and staff while keeping our community as safe and healthy as possible.
In Partnership,
Dr. Altagracia “Gracie” Guerrero Superintendent