Governor says school reopening guidance is coming soon, but local officials will decide when to open campuses

Acknowledging that the state has created draft guidance for reopening schools, Gov. Newsom said during his news briefing that it is still being finalized and is expected to be released soon. He said state officials want to make sure the guidance is appropriate and are stressing the importance of protective gear such as face masks for all employees – including teachers, custodial staff, principals, cafeteria workers, bus drivers and maintenance crew members.

Newsom said state guidelines explain how businesses and schools can reopen, but do not say when they should open. It is up to county and other local officials to determine their own timeframes, he said.

The governor also said state officials are continuing to work with Congressional leaders including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on the passage of the HEROES Act, which would provide additional revenues to states to protect heroes, including teachers and nurses.