Boston Globe: Schools move away from masks, suggesting research works

Heading into our third fall living with COVID-19, many schools and colleges are abandoning mask mandates and telling students that face coverings are optional. The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education formalized it on Monday, releasing fall guidelines informing families that “there is no statewide masking mandate for schools (except school health departments) and there are no school testing requirements.” (Lazar, 8/15)

Fox News: Philadelphia school district mandates masks for first 10 days of school year, pre-K must wear masks year-round

The Philadelphia school district requires students and staff to wear masks for the first 10 days of the school year, and pre-kindergarten attendees are required to wear masks year-round. School district and city officials made the announcement in a letter to parents on Friday, saying most schools will be mask-free after the first 10 days of the school year from Aug. 29 to Sept. 9. (Saybeth, 8/12)

Oklahoma: Oklahoma documents expect COVID cases to rise as students return to school

As Oklahoma children return to school, COVID-19 cases are likely to rise, experts say. But families can take precautions to ensure their children stay healthy and stay in the classroom. If you are sick, get vaccinated, wear a mask and stay home. (Branham, 8/15)

AP: WVa to provide free COVID tests, vaccines in schools

West Virginia’s health agency has purchased 16 vans to provide free COVID-19 tests and vaccines at schools and community events, officials said. … Schools interested in having Vans attend the event should contact their local health department, the statement said. (8/16)

In other news about the spread of covid —

Statistics: Covid and flu vaccinations will be a mixed fall

It will be a complicated fall for health officials leading immunization campaigns. (Joseph, 8/16)

AP: North Carolina governor signs order to officially end COVID-19 emergency

North Carolina’s state of emergency, which has given the state government special powers to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic, has officially ended Monday, almost two and a half years after Gov. Roy Cooper issued the original order. to end. (Robertson, 8/15)

AP: Secretary of Defense Austin tests positive for COVID for the second time

Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said Monday that he has tested positive for COVID-19, is experiencing mild symptoms, and will be quarantining at home. It’s the second time Austin has contracted the coronavirus. In a statement, Austin, 69, said he was fully vaccinated and had two boosters. and will virtually maintain a normal work schedule from home.” (8/15)