As of June 9, 2021, masks will no longer be required within the Jackson School District, including on buses, TLS has learned.

When restrictions were lifted last month, schools, as well as buses to and from school still required children to wear masks.

However, Gov. Phil Murphy announced yesterday afternoon that school officials have the authority to relax masking requirements during times of extreme heat. This tweet was not aligned to previous executive orders and did not come with clear parameters, leaving district leaders to make interpretations on their own.

“Although our schools are air-conditioned, there are areas in our classrooms, hallways and buses where extreme heat, humidity, and the sun’s position cause uncomfortable conditions,” the District said. “In light of yesterday’s announcement, and given the weather we expect during these last weeks of school, the Jackson School District will be relaxing our mask requirements for students and staff.”

“Effective tomorrow, June 9, 2021 and for the remainder of the school year, masks will be OPTIONAL for all students and staff both indoors and outdoors. We are making it effective June 9 to allow parents to discuss this development with their children and decide as a family under what circumstances a parent may want their child to wear a mask in school.”

The District added, “We will continue to act upon information as it becomes available and provide our school community with updates as appropriate. We hope that moving forward, the state will provide clear guidance and that school officials receive updates in advance of Twitter so that we may process, act upon, and inform you about new developments in a timely manner.”