June 7, 2021

Dear Galway School District Community,

On Friday June 4, Dr. Howard Zucker, New York State Commissioner of Health issued a letter (click here to read) to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) regarding differing mask policies for summer camps and schools. Media coverage of this letter has led to some confusion and inferred that mask wearing in schools was optional. 

On Sunday June 6, we wrote to you after receiving guidance from the New York State Department of Education which was contrary to the letter from Dr. Zucker. The New York State Department of Education informed schools that the Department of Health’s letter has not changed any existing arrangements. “Therefore, schools should continue to operate under their existing procedures until further notice.”

Today, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced that after conferring with the CDC “school districts can choose to lift the requirement that their students must wear masks outdoors. Guidance on mask use indoors remains in place.” To view the Governor’s full press release, click here.  Our district will also add more and extended mask breaks during days that are deemed "heat advisory."

Although we are still awaiting final guidance from the Governor’s office, I wanted to get word to you as soon as possible. Please know that the health and safety of our students will continue to be our top priority. 

Thank you for your patience as we make it through these last few weeks of a very difficult year.

Dr. Brita Donovan