Gov. Jay Inslee announced new COVID-19 guidelines Wednesday for in-person learning and outlined new recommendations for schools during the pandemic.
The new state standards are less strict than previous guidelines, and are aimed are getting local school districts to reopen schools. They focus on getting the younger students back into the classroom first.
Under the new guidelines, all students can return to in-person instruction when COVID-19 cases are less than 50 residents per 100,000.
When cases are greater than 50 per 100,000 but less than 350, districts can phase in in-person learning beginning with elementary and middle school students.
When COVID cases are more than 350 per 100,000 residents, schools districts are encouraged to bring elementary school students and those with the highest needs back in small groups of 15 students or fewer.
Inslee said the state recommends beginning with the youngest students and those with the highest needs first. Older students should be the last to return to in-person instruction.
He also said that health data shows its easier to get younger students to adhere to health protocols.
The governor also made it clear that these are recommendations and not requirements, and while he has the authority to close schools, he cannot order them to reopen.
Below is the update Inslee gave on Wednesday on the COVID-19 pandemic, providing guidance around schools:
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