NYC will continue mask wearing in schools, after state says it’s only optional

Students will not be required to wear masks in schools — even if they are unvaccinated, according to new state guidelines that go into effect Monday.

But state Health Commissioner Howard Zucker said schools may implement stricter safety standards — and the city Department of Education said it will ignore the guidance and continue to impose a “universal mask” policy in schools. Zucker said unvaccinated students will be “strongly encouraged but not required” to wear masks indoors if unvaccinated.