Milwaukee Public Schools will return to in-person learning this fall, with face masks required

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Milwaukee Public Schools will require students to wear masks for the upcoming 2021-22 school year. 

In a letter sent to parents Friday, June 25, MPS Superintendent Dr. Keith Posley announced schools will be open for in-person learning five days a week and face coverings will be required. 

Masks will not be required outdoors or while students are eating or drinking. 

Athletics will also make a return. 

The letter from Dr. Posley reads in part: 

"I want to thank each and every one of you for your support and flexibility during the past year. We have all adapted to the ever-changing conditions of the pandemic, and we have been successful by keeping a single purpose in mind: serving the needs of our students. Take a moment to enjoy this recap video that highlights our 2020-21 school year.

I want to share some important updates about the 2021–22 school year.

All MPS schools will be open for in-person learning five days per week. School buildings will be open to the public, and families should contact the school office to schedule a visit. A virtual program will be offered to families who believe that virtual learning is the best option for their children. Starting in July, families that expressed interest in the virtual program will receive a follow-up phone call to answer any additional questions and move forward with the enrollment process.

As in the past, MPS will operate on two calendars. High schools, stand-alone middle schools, and K–12 schools will follow the Early Start Calendar. All elementary schools and the virtual program will follow the Traditional Calendar.

MPS will require face coverings to be worn in all buildings, schools, and on buses. Face coverings will not be required outdoors or while individuals are eating or drinking. While in the building, students and staff will practice three feet physical distance, and all classrooms and common areas will have a HEPA filter. Each building will maintain additional cleaning staff, and high-contact areas will be cleaned regularly throughout the day.

We are pleased to announce the return of athletics. Registration for high school fall sports is now open. Students participating in outdoor sports will not be required to wear a mask. For indoor sports, masks will not be required while students are competing, but masks will be required while not competing (e.g., while sitting on the bench)."

Read the full letter HERE.