July 2, 2021

Dear School Community Member:

Good afternoon. I hope your summer is off to a good start and you are finding time to rest and relax. This was a challenging school year and all of us earned some much needed down time.

On July 4, 2021, N.J. Executive Order No. 175 (Mask Mandate) will expire. As a result, the use of face coverings will be optional for all students and staff members inside our schools, starting on July 5th. After speaking with a health official from the Bergen County Department of Health, the BCDOH is still recommending the use of a mask, but is not requiring them. The decision to wear a mask will be decided by each individual student and staff member, including all 12-month employees and students/staff attending the Extended School Year (ESY) and Summer Owl Academy from July 6th-30th.

It is important to note that we will continue to monitor the COVID-19 transmission rate and number of cases in our area. If the numbers continue to remain low, I would plan on the same "mask optional" approach when schools reopen in September.

I hope everyone enjoys the holiday weekend.

Please feel free to reach out to me directly with any questions.

Sincerely,

Robert M. Gamper, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools