Facial coverings act as a barrier to reduce the transmission of droplets in the air through coughing, sneezing, talking or other activity that projects secretions through the air. These coverings may be in the form of a mask, scarf, bandana, or similar multi-layer fabric that completely covers the mouth and nose. 

• All students and staff must wear some form of facial covering or mask that covers the mouth and nose in the school building, and outdoors if social distancing of six feet or greater cannot be accomplished.

• Those who are exempt from this must provide documentation of a medical condition that prevents them from wearing a facial covering. 

• If a student cannot tolerate a mask or fabric covering, every attempt should be made to wear other forms of protective facial coverings although these do not provide the same form of protection.

• Masks or face coverings that cover the nose and mouth must be worn if students are traveling by bus.

• We recognize that younger students may not tolerate masks or facial coverings throughout a school day, therefore, classroom teachers will work with students to increase their tolerance by incorporating mask breaks at frequent intervals throughout the day.  

• Mask breaks will be provided for students in all grades during the day. 

• A phased-in approach will be taken to assist individual students and those with disabilities to become acclimated to facial coverings. Failure to wear a mask will not be punishable for children in younger grades.

• North Andover Public Schools expect all students and all adults to comply with this requirement. If students or adults are unable to comply, removal from the classroom and dismissal may occur.  Staff will work with parents and students who have individual medical needs.

How to Select, Wear and Clean your Mask

Face coverings should: 

• cover the nose and mouth

• fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face

• be secured with ties or ear loops

• include multiple layers of fabric

• allow for breathing without restriction

• be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape

Face covering may NOT:

• be made of fabric that makes it hard to breathe, for example vinyl

• have exhalation valves or vents, which allow virus particles to escape