Dear PSD Staff and Families,

This afternoon, the Governor announced that beginning March 21 the statewide mask mandate for schools will be removed.  We are anticipating updated K-12 guidance to be released from the Department of Health to help with this transition toward the beginning of March. 

What does this mean?

Because of legal mandates, masks are still required of staff and students indoors, in all school buildings and facilities, until March 21.  On March 21, unless directed otherwise by local health jurisdictions, mask wearing will be an individual choice for those who desire more protection in learning environments.  For staff, we will continue to provide access to high quality masks and PPE so that individuals feel comfortable in their specific work environment. 

We encourage you to model and ask that you talk with children about respecting personal mask choices.  Where some may celebrate this news, others may not be comfortable with it.  Bullying or harassment will not be tolerated.  Reporting is encouraged and will be taken seriously. 

Your health and the health of our students is a top priority.

Navigating the end of this pandemic remains a coordinated effort.  We will continue to report cases and outbreaks of COVID and continue to work with public health officials in responding to them. We will continue to emphasize good hand-washing hygiene, provide hand sanitizer, utilize testing, frequently clean, physically distance where possible, and remind anyone who is sick to stay home. Staff and students exposed to COVID-19 should continue to follow the quarantine and isolation timeframes for returning to work or school. 

We are grateful for this news. 

Although this year has been outrageously challenging, our staff and students have done an incredible job mitigating disease transmission to keep schools open. Keep up the good work!  Today’s news confirms our efforts and is one step in the transition of returning to normal health operations in schools. I am so incredibly grateful for the ways in which everyone has come together to support one another. 

We will continue communicating as we learn about additional changes and the impact in Puyallup Schools.  Thank you for your patience as we move forward together. 

Have a safe and restful holiday weekend.

In service,

Dr. John A. Polm
Superintendent