Yonkers City Council member John Rubbo is urging Governor Kathy Hochul to loosen current masking restrictions in 4th district schools.
Rubbo, a father to two school-aged children, argues for the need for a unified and progressive approach to masking policies for schools across New York State.
As Rubbo stated in the Yonkers Times:
“I believe that we need to be progressive in our thinking with regards to our school community and their health,” Rubbo said. “The time has come to implement a plan that returns our schools to a sense of normalcy. In order to do so we must look to science.”
Rubbo is asking the State Health Department, Education Department and Governor Hochul to enact a policy to reduce mask restrictions in all New York school districts by March 1, 2022.
“The time to act is now,” he stated.
In his proposal, Rubbo argued that metrics and milestones for easing masking regulations have been successful in other school districts nationwide. He also stressed that clear guidance should be provided for vaccination status of athletes and students involved in extracurricular activities.
Rubbo’s perspective is further outlined in his proposal:
“Decisions should be based on facts and science and determined at the State level for universal rollout across all NY school districts. We have seen positive cases drop by 94% since January 7, and so it’s now time to receive clear guidance that does not drive fear into our society.”
Governor Hochul announced on February 9th, 2022 that the indoor mask mandate would end effective immediately. Schools, however, would continue with their current regulations until after winter recess.
In speaking of Rubbo’s proposal, Governor Hochul remarked:
“The numbers are trending much better and there definitely is an end in sight. But students still need adults looking out for their health. This is all about protecting our children.”
