According to a study of COVID incidence in Boston-area schools before and after a statewide mask mandate was lifted, schools that maintained masking post-mandate had significantly lower rates of COVID, leading students and staff to miss fewer school days. The study’s findings underscore the value of continuing masking policies even when mandates are rescinded.

This California Department of Public Health memo provides up-to-date guidance to California’s schools on mitigating COVID-19 while learning in person. It describes mitigation strategies, as well as considerations for student mental and behavioral health, students with disabilities and other health needs, higher-risk activities, large events, visitors to schools, and boarding schools.

This toolkit provides a range of newly updated resources from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as well as the Department of Health and Human Services COVID-19 Public Education Campaign to help increase COVID-19 vaccine uptake in schools and communities. The toolkit includes English- and Spanish-language resources for school and early childhood program leaders, teachers, parents, and parent leaders.

This Yale School of Medicine fact sheet provides answers to commonly asked questions about the newly authorized Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines for children under 5 years old. Data is included on safety, efficacy, dosage, timing, and where and how to access the vaccines.

A study conducted from late July to mid December 2021 found that school districts with universal masking were less likely to experience COVID-19 spreading in their schools when compared to school districts with optional masking. After accounting for school size, masked schools saw up to 87% less transmission.

This FAQ addresses common questions that parents may have about the safety of COVID-19 vaccines for children. It explains how mRNA vaccines (such as the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines) work and the research that explains why vaccines are now considered safe for young children.