Hingham School District to Move Mask Optional Feb. 28, High School Feb. 14

A Message from Dr. Maestas, Interim Superintendent

Dear Hingham Community,

After careful consideration, the Hingham School Committee has officially decided to rescind the Face Coverings policy and move to a Mask Optional model effective February 28, 2022 for the Hingham School District. This approach aligns with that of the direction from Governor Baker, and Commissioner Riley of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. You can read the memo from Commissioner Riley here.

As the High School has over an 80% vaccination rate for both students and staff, a waiver was placed three weeks ago to go mask optional. It was granted on Friday, February 11, 2022, and because of this development, the School Committee voted to move the High School to mask optional. This went into effect on Monday, February 14, 2022.

There are however a few circumstances in which masks will remain:

In all nurses’ offices
On buses
The 5 days following 5-day isolations from a positive COVID-19 case.

If students, faculty, or staff wish to wear a mask to school, they have every right to do so. It is up to the comfort level of that person and we as faculty and staff have the responsibility to ensure that our students will be supported in their choice. It is strongly recommended by both DESE and DPH that if you are unvaccinated, you should continue to wear a mask in school settings.

I would like to thank you for your patience during this most difficult time. I know we are all looking forward to an environment that will be free from COVID conditions. Until then, I appreciate your partnership with the Hingham Schools.

Dr. Gary Maestas

Interim Superintendent of Schools

Hingham Public Schools

781-741-1500