Masks to be optional for Richland One students and staff starting Monday

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO)– Effective this coming Monday, masks and facial coverings will be optional for all Richland School District One students and staff. This includes inside classrooms and on school busses too. The school district previously required masks back in January, after a spike in COVID-19 cases in the area.

“In Richland One, we have been cautious and deliberative in addressing health and safety concerns related to the pandemic. We put COVID-19 mitigating strategies and safety protocols in place that have helped to keep our numbers down and our schools open,” said Richland One Superintendent Dr. Craig Witherspoon.

Visitors will still be required to wear masks when coming into the schools. The district continues to encourage students and staff who are eligible to get their COVID-19 vaccinations.

A summary of the district’s COVID-19 protocols can be found at www.richlandone.org/RestartStrong.