Updated Masking Needs

Dear ECS Families, 

At ECS, end of the school year field trips, celebrations, and events are a tradition - one that students and families have not had the opportunity to experience the past two years. While we are joyfully participating in these events, it has come to our attention that the nuances of COVID-19 may complicate field trips. 

As with all of the district’s COVID-19 procedures and protocols, decisions are made carefully in partnership with health experts including the school’s health office nurses and the school doctor. After additional consultations, it was determined that masking will be required during travel to field trips and if the field trip is inside regardless of Allegheny County’s community level.    
In consideration of the difficulties surrounding circumstantial masking, the district has amended its original optional masking protocol stated in the Friday, May 20 communication to align with CDC recommended guidelines.

In addition to re-enacting a closed campus protocol, shifting indoor events to outside, and encouraging an increase in outdoor activities, if Allegheny County transitions to a HIGH community level, the district will also ask all students and staff to mask when indoors. 

We recognize that changes regarding masking are not ideal. Together, the administration, board of trustees, and our health professionals continue to make and alter decisions to ensure the health and safety of our families and students and to protect our students’ learning environments. As COVID-19 remains a fluid situation, please know that we are grateful for your continued tenacity and understanding. 

Sincerely, 

Dr. James Doyle, COO
Jon McCann, CEO,
Dr. Mandy Cribbs, Superintendent
Dwight Laufman, CSSO
Michelle Resnick, CFO
Dr. Sapna Parker, Board Member & School Doctor