For Immediate Release
MENLO PARK – State Senator Josh Becker called for the state and counties to swiftly align their guidance on distancing in schools with the recommendation issued today by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Protections.
“The new CDC guidance recommending a physical distance of 3 feet instead of 6 feet is encouraging. The guidance was informed by research in Massachusetts that found ‘lower physical distancing policies can be adopted in school settings with masking mandates without negatively impacting student or staff safety.’ The CDC guidance follows the World Health Organization, which recommends 1 meter, and the American Academy of Pediatrics, which has advised flexibility with physical distancing requirements.
“I urge the state and our counties -- including the counties of San Mateo and Santa Clara, which I represent -- to swiftly align with the new federal guidance so local districts have the flexibility needed to safely get students back in classrooms. With many teachers now being vaccinated, and data demonstrating the safety of school reopenings, we can and should do everything we can to give students the opportunity to learn in the classroom as soon as possible.”
Senator Becker is available for interviews today.
###
Media Contact: Leslie Guevarra, 415-298-3404, leslie.guevarra@sen.ca.gov