By PAT RAIA, [email protected]
Beginning June 18, face coverings will no longer be required for students, teachers, other staff, and visitors to schools within the district.
Face coverings were mandated last July when the Hernando County School Board voted unanimously to approve an emergency rule, making the masks mandatory for all students, staff, and visitors.
On May 25, the board voted to support Superintendent John Stratton’s recommendation for June 18th to be the last day to make masks mandatory.
June 18 is the last day of the current school year.
Face coverings will remain voluntary for summer school, school-hosted summer camps, and activities, as well as for the 2021-2022 school year, the Hernando County School District website said.
Meanwhile, masks will be voluntary at all 2021 commencement ceremonies. All ceremonies will take place outdoors with social distancing in place, the website said.