HARRISBURG, Pa. - The Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Wolf administration have announced updated guidance for the reopening of schools in the fall.

According to the release, each school district will determine if classes can resume in person, remotely or a combination of both.

The plan includes best practices outlined by the state's Health and Education departments.

Best practices include:

  • Masks must be worn by all students and staff while at school and on the bus. Masks can be removed to eat or drink.
  • Students or caregivers should conduct symptom screenings before leaving for school.
  • Teachers, students and other staff are encouraged to follow social distancing between desks and other seating.
  • If possible, hold classes in gyms, auditoriums or other large spaces or outdoors to maintain physical distancing.
  • Student seating should face the same direction.
  • Limit student interactions by staggering class times and creating one-way walking patterns in hallways.
  • Consider serving individually packaged meals in classrooms to avoid across-the-table seating.
  • Limit the number of students on playgrounds at one time.
  • Encourage the use of virtual gatherings, events and extracurricular activities.

The guidelines build on the Department of Education's preliminary guidance that was issued on June 3.

School sport guidance remains the same with coaches, athletes, and spectators wearing a mask unless they can stay 6 feet apart. Athletes can take off their masks for workouts or competition.

“Our goal is to ensure a safe return to school for students, educators and staff by following best practices to mitigate the spread of the virus, including wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing,” Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said. “In those instances when someone tests positive, public health staff from the department will immediately assist the school with risk assessment, isolation and quarantine recommendations, and other infection control recommendations."