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Mask or no mask? Here's how districts are starting the school year

The American Academy of Pediatrics released new guidance saying one of its top recommendations is that masks should be worn for anyone over the age of two.

ATLANTA — Just as students are returning to campuses for the fall school year, cases of the coronavirus have started to tick up again

The American Academy of Pediatrics released new guidance in July and one of its top recommendations is that masks should be worn for anyone over the age of two, including those who are fully vaccinated.

The recommendations deviate from those of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which updated its recommendations in July to say that vaccinated students and staff don't need to wear masks in school. The CDC also isn't advising schools to require shots for teachers and vaccine-eligible students.

Across the metro, school districts have varied on the decision. DeKalb County, for example, announced earlier in the summer that masks would not be required, however, they said due to to the recent increase, they are again requiring them.

Masks required:

Atlanta Public Schools – Masks are mandatory for all students and staff while indoors.

Dekalb County - Masks are mandatory once again for students and staff while indoors and on buses, regardless of vaccination status.

Clayton County – Will still require students and staff to wear masks when classes begin in August.

Fulton County - Masks are mandatory for all students and staff indoors, including those in Johns Creek.

Griffin Spalding County - All students and staff are required to wear face coverings on school campuses, district offices, and buses.

Gwinnett County - Will require masks for all students and staff. This decision was made on July 27 after previously stating they would be optional. 

Newton County - Masks will be required at school and on buses. The district is calling this a "temporary mask mandate."

Troup County - Masks will be mandatory for all students and staff. They will also be mandatory on buses and water fountains will be shut off.

Masks not required:

Cobb County - Optional to wear face coverings.

Forsyth County – Not required for vaccinated individuals.

Marietta City Schools – Not required for vaccinated individuals.


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