Caught by surprise, Texas education officials unsure how end of mask mandate will affect schools

Texas school superintendents did not receive advance notice of Gov. Greg Abbott’s announcement ending the state’s mask mandate Tuesday, leaving them scrambling to tell parents and educators what to expect.

Declaring it time for Texas to reopen, Abbott said his mask mandate will end next week, but failed to explain how the decision will impact schools. Texas Education Agency officials said they will release updated guidance this week. In an interview with radio host Chad Hasty after his announcement, Abbott said he expected the agency would leave the decision to require masks up to local school boards.

Many superintendents told The Texas Tribune or sent notices to parents saying they plan to continue requiring masks in schools, despite the governor’s decision.

Read more from The Texas Tribune.

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