The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) most recent information about school reopening can be accessed using this link. 

The American Academy of Pediatrics Calls for ‘Universal Masking’ in Schools — Vaccinated or Not

On July 18^th, 2021, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommended that all students and staff over the age of two returning to in-person schooling should wear masks regardless of vaccination status. This guidance is based on the proven efficacy of masks in reducing COVID-19 transmission, and in protecting unvaccinated individuals. Universal masking also eliminates the need to monitor the vaccination status of students and staff.

While the AAP’s recommendations contradict CDC guidelines which state that only unvaccinated individuals need to wear masks, they are supported by Dr. Anthony Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Dr. Fauci notes that universal masking may be beneficial since a significant proportion of the American population remains unvaccinated.

Furthermore, in the upcoming school year, the APP recommends making COVID-19 testing resources more accessible in the community. It also encourages families to catch up on any vaccinations they missed due to the pandemic, including the flu vaccine.

The organization is supportive of a return to in-person learning, stating that in-person learning does not significantly increase the risk of community transmission when pandemic control measures, such as testing, disinfection, and proper ventilation are implemented. However, schools will need to adapt to new information about COVID-19 community transmission over the 2021-22 academic year.

Source: https://services.aap.org/en/pages/2019-novel-coronavirus-covid-19-infections/clinical-guidance/covid-19-planning-considerations-return-to-in-person-education-in-schools/