Face coverings won't be required in schools and childcare facilities starting Monday, Feb. 28, following a "significant" drop in COVID-19 cases in Denver, the city health department announced Wednesday. (The mask mandate technically ends at 11:59 a.m. Feb. 25, which is a Friday.)
Nearly 80% of Denverites five and older are vaccinated, and 40% have received their booster. The city lifted its indoor mask mandate last week.
"With the current decline in severe cases and the high rates of immunity that we're seeing, it is safe to lift the school mask mandate at this time," said Dr. Sterling McLaren, Denver's chief medical officer. "The best way to protect children is to make sure they stay up to date with their vaccinations and ensure that the adults around them are vaccinated as well."
Denver Public Schools superintendent Alex Marrero sent parents a letter Wednesday acknowledging the city's decision but stressing that masks will still be strongly recommended for staff, students and visitors.
The city health department said it will release updated guidelines on quarantining and isolating for schools and childcare facilities next week.
