Passaic, Camden schools reinstate mask mandate as teachers hold maskless party

Public schools in Passaic, New Jersey reinstated a mask mandate this week for all children in Pre-K through 12^th grade, citing a rise in COVID-19 cases. 

"Please be advised that as per our Board Policy No. 5141.10, during periods of a High Activity Level as published in the NJDOH COVID-19 Activity Level Report, mask wearing is required,” wrote Superintendent Sandra Diodonet in a letter Tuesday. “Therefore, effective Wednesday, December 21, 2022, all employees, Pre-K through grade 12 students, and visitors are required to wear face coverings in all district facilities, school grounds, and buses.” 

The notice came just four days after Passaic Public Schools held a large holiday party for schools 1, 3, 15 and 19, where teachers and staff mingled closely without masks. Photos from the party were posted on Facebook by Marcel Watts, an employee of the Board of Education, who has since deleted the post. 

For some, the party is a reminder of how children, who are the lowest risk population for COVID-19, are often forced to wear masks while even at-risk adults with co-morbidities were under no mandate to do so. 

Earlier this year, for example, failed Democratic gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams was photographed unmasked while surrounded by children who were forced to cover their faces. 

In July, members of a children’s choir were forced to remain masked at a ceremony at the Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum in Israel while they serenaded elderly officials and statesmen, including Joe Biden, who stood by unmasked. 

The day after Passaic Public Schools announced their mask mandate, Camden City School District followed suit. 

“Upon returning, CCSD will implement a two-week mandatory masking policy through January 17, 2023 for all students, staff and anyone entering our buildings,” wrote Superintendent Katrina McCombs. “NJDOH has already reported an increase in COVID, flu, and RSV cases. Therefore, in an effort to be proactive and remain vigilant, all schools and offices will operate under a short mask mandate upon reopening.”