The NC Department of Health and Human Services has updated the StrongSchools Tool Kit FAQ related to K12 schools and face coverings. 

Given that our student population is largely not yet vaccinated, face coverings remain a critical tool for protecting children and keeping them safely in the classroom. NCDHHS recommends schools continue to implement a universal face covering requirement if they are located in a county with high or substantial community transmission level. When community transmission levels decline to moderate or low levels for at least 7 consecutive days, school leaders can consider making face coverings optional for vaccinated individuals. Face coverings should continue to be required for all unvaccinated individuals until community transmission is at low levels, when mask could be optional for everyone. 

NCDHHS will continue to re-evaluate this guidance as all school-aged children become eligible for and get vaccinated. The ​StrongSchools Toolkit Frequently Asked Questions has been updated to reflect this guidance.