March 9, 2022

Dear RUSD Families,

Rowland Unified continues to remain committed to providing care, compassion, connection and content, all while placing a top priority on the health and safety of our students and staff. We have followed California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) guidance and mandates to allow for full in-person instruction in the safest way possible. RUSD is proud of our additional safety precautions implemented that few districts in the region or State have done, such as thermal scanners to screen temperatures of students and staff upon entry, touchless water bottle filling stations, increased handwashing stations, outdoor eating and learning spaces, HEPA filters in all classrooms, increased ventilation and upgraded HVAC filters. 

On February 28, Governor Newsom announced that with declining COVID-19 case rates and hospitalizations across the west, California, Oregon and Washington are moving together to update their masking guidance to make wearing masks indoors at school optional after March 11, 2022. On March 4, 2022, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health updated our local Health Orders to align with the state guidance on masks. The Health Order now states that masks are strongly recommended, but no longer required in schools.

Therefore, with a few exceptions, effective on Monday, March 14, it is optional for students and staff to wear a mask while on campus. 

We appreciate and acknowledge that the state and county lifting the mask requirement may cause anxiety for some people, especially those who are at higher risk for COVID or live with someone who is at higher risk. Wearing a mask will continue to be an option for every student and staff member who wishes to wear one at any time. One should not make assumptions regarding someone’s beliefs or health status based upon their choice to wear or not wear a mask. Masks will continue to be available for staff and students at school. All students and staff are to feel comfortable and free from judgment for their personal mask-wearing decision. If your child(ren) expresses any anxiety, feel free to reach out to our teacher, school principal and/or counselors for additional support.

In an effort to maintain the health and safety of all:

• Students and staff should continue to remain home when sick.
• Students and staff are encouraged to take a COVID-19 test if exhibiting symptoms.
• Students and staff are encouraged to take advantage of COVID-19 testing and vaccines offered at the District Office by COVID CLINIC - more information found by CLICKING HERE.

Thank you for your collaboration as we continue to navigate changes. I truly appreciate your patience and understanding as we provide for the health of our students and staff while keeping the focus on student learning and achievement. 

Sincerely,

Julie Mitchell, Ed.D.

Superintendent