Face Mask Protocol

Global Learning Charter Public School is committed to providing a safe environment as school reopens during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to public health experts, one of the best ways to stop the spread of coronavirus and to keep members of our school community safe is the use of face masks. Therefore, in accordance with guidance from the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH), the following requirements are in place until further notice. An ear-loop face mask that covers the nose and mouth must be worn by all individuals in school buildings, on school grounds and on school transportation, even when social distancing is observed.

A student’s face mask is to be provided by the student’s parents/guardians. Parents/guardians should send the student to school with an extra face mask. Based on guidance from health authorities, neck gaiters, open-chin triangle bandanas and face covering containing valves, mesh materials or holes of any kind will not be considered appropriate masks. Staff members are responsible for providing their own face mask.

Individuals may be excused from the requirement for the following list of reasons, per CDC guidance: 

• has trouble breathing; is unconscious, is incapacitated
• cannot remove the face mask without assistance.

In addition, face masks will not be required for anyone who has a medical, behavioral or other challenge making it unsafe to wear a face mask. A written note from a physician is required for a requested exemption. Parents may not excuse their child from the face mask requirement by signing a waiver.

Additionally, face masks will not be required when appropriate social distancing is enforced.

• Any time a mask break is taken, all students must remain at least 6 feet apart
• Mask breaks that occur indoors should be limited to ten minutes. When not being worn, the face mask should be placed on the student's desk, inside their pocket and/or backpack.

• Students should remain in their own space, and refrain from talking.
• When possible, mask breaks should be taken outdoors.
• If a student's face mask becomes wet or soiled, the face mask should be replaced.
• If students are in violation of this protocol, GLCPS will consult with the parent/guardians to determine whether an exception is appropriate, or the student may be redirected to remote learning until such time as they can comply with the requirement or the requirement is lifted. Violations of this protocol by staff, who have not previously been approved for an exemption, will be handled by Human Resources. Visitors in violation of this policy will be denied entry to the school.