Update on Statewide Masking Requirements, Feb. 22, 2022

February 22nd, 2022

Please note: At this time, there is no change to the HCPSS universal indoor masking requirement. The message below is to provide an update following the Maryland State Department of Education’s action on Feb. 22.

Earlier today, Feb. 22, the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) voted to rescind COMAR 13A.01.07 Face Coverings in School Facilities and return masking requirements to local control, pending approval by the Maryland General Assembly’s Administrative, Executive & Legislative Review (AELR) committee. This decision comes on the heels of the Howard County Executive’s decision to lift the countywide mask mandate for most Howard County Government buildings. In addition, earlier today, Dr. Maura Rossman, Howard County Health Officer shared encouraging information that the recent improvement in metrics would allow for further relaxation of masking policies.

Following approval by the AELR committee, HCPSS will no longer require universal masking in our buildings, and additional details will be shared at that time. Until that time, the HCPSS universal indoor masking requirement remains in place. As changes are made, the HCPSS website will be updated accordingly.

As a reminder, students and staff should continue to perform a health check every day before entering HCPSS buildings. No staff or student should go to schools or offices if they are experiencing symptoms associated with any communicable disease, including COVID-19.