Citing the availability of updated data and consultation with medical advisors, the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has updated its Reopening Transportation Guidance to eliminate physical distancing requirements and capacity limitations for elementary schools across the board, and for middle and high school students except in districts with high community prevalence.  For middle and high schools in districts where there is high community prevalence, capacity and physical distancing requirements on buses has been amended to allow 2 students per bench. According to the guidance, the differentiation between elementary and middle/high schools is based on continuing evidence that younger students are less likely to become infected with COVID-19 and may be less likely to transmit the virus as well.

The Guidance is clear that DESE’s updated standards are appropriate only when used in conjunction with other required mitigation measures including the ongoing requirement that all students and staff members wear masks at all times regardless of age, and that the windows on the buses remain open (at least 2 inches) to allow for ventilation. This includes during adverse weather conditions and districts are encouraged to develop plans for dealing with these situations. In addition, DESE continues to recommend the use of seat assignments and bus monitors to ensure enforcement of health and safety guidelines. In addition, students are still expected to face forward at all times and avoid eating, shouting, singing or sharing items while on the bus.