Adam Beam
California announced new coronavirus rules for public schools on Monday that let students and teachers sit as close to each other as they want while making sure no one will miss class time even if they are exposed to someone with the virus.
But those changes from the last school year were overshadowed by news the state would continue to require all students and staff to wear masks while indoors, reigniting criticism of Gov. Gavin Newsom as he faces a recall election in September.
The federal government last week said teachers and students who are fully vaccinated against the coronavirus don't have to wear masks indoors. But that guidance, published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, also recommended students and staff stay at least 3 feet apart to reduce the spread of a disease that is primarily transmitted through the air.