The following governing entities have updated mask policies in light of declining COVID-19 numbers:
Roanoke Rapids Graded School District
Face coverings are now optional on all Roanoke Rapids Graded School District buses and in the Head Start program.
The RRGSD trustees voted Tuesday night citing new guidance from the CDC, Office of Headstart, and the NC Strong Schools Toolkit.
Halifax Community College
Based on the improving COVID-19 landscape and Governor Roy Cooper's Executive Order 253 allowing optional mask use, Halifax Community College has decided to adopt optional mask use on campus.
Patrons who are served by the dental hygiene and cosmetology students, however, must continue mask use while undergoing these services.
Acting President and VP of Administrative Services/CFO David Forester said these changes went into effect Tuesday.
Halifax County Schools
The Halifax County School Board of Education approved the superintendent's recommendation for masks to be optional effective March 21.
Based on the number of confirmed results, the superintendent may change back to mandatory masking with the approval of the board of education.
Halifax County government
The COVID-19 positivity rate in Halifax County has steadily dropped over the last several weeks, dipping to a low of 6.8 percent in last week’s report.
With the number of cases dropping masks will now be optional in county buildings, effective immediately.
County departments may implement their own safety measures to fit with individual needs of both employees, customers and visitors.