AKRON, Ohio — Akron Public Schools said Friday that it is lifting its indoor mask mandate effective Monday, making face coverings optional for students, staff and visitors.
The district said those who remain at high risk for severe illness should consider continuing to wear face coverings indoors and in large gatherings.
Akron Public Schools sent a letter to parents on Friday announcing the decision.
“Infection rates are low, partly because APS has maintained strict adherence to COVID-19 protocols since the onset of the virus two years ago,” Superintendent Christine Fowler Mack wrote. “In addition, we have made significant progress in encouraging students and staff to be vaccinated.”
According to data released by the district to the state, the district had three COVID-19 cases last week among district students and staff, down from a peak of 140 cases reported for the week of Jan. 20. The district has seen a steep decline in cases, according to self-reported data. Other districts in the region have reported similar drops.
The announcement comes after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced late last month a change in COVID-19 guidance. The CDC does not advise masking in areas with low or medium levels in COVID-19 in most public places, including schools.
Summit County has what the CDC considers a “low” spread of COVID-19.
“APS will follow the advice of the CDC in lifting our mandatory mask requirement,” Fowler Mack said. “We recognize, however, that as long as the threat of infection still exists, students and the most vulnerable among us are advised to continue wearing masks, and all of us should keep them at hand.”
