Clarification, Revision to Enhanced COVID-Safe Practices

Outdoor masking is required only in crowded settings and for close-contact activities. A few spectators will be allowed at indoor sporting events.

UPDATE: 1/24/22: The Public Education Department has approved the amended APS Plan for Implementing Enhanced COVID-Safe Practices.

Albuquerque Public Schools has revised its Enhanced COVID-Safe Practices to allow two spectators per student participant at indoor sporting events and other activities. The district also clarified its outdoor masking rule, requiring masks outside only in crowded settings and for close-contact activities. 

Masks are still required indoors, including for spectators and guests. Student participants will provide the names of guests, who will be checked in at games and other events. ID may be required.  

After seeking further guidance from the New Mexico Public Education Department on enhanced COVID-safe practices, APS clarified its requirement for outdoor masking. According to the CDC: “In areas with high numbers of COVID-19 cases, consider wearing a mask in crowded outdoor settings and for activities with close contact with others who are not fully vaccinated.”

The amended Plan for Implementing Enhanced COVID Safe Practices (PDF) was approved by the New Mexico Public Education Department on Monday, Jan. 24. APS will allow a limited number of spectators at sporting events and other activities beginning Wednesday, Jan. 26. 

The Enhanced COVID Safe Practices will be in place for all APS schools through Feb. 2 due to a spike in COVID cases. APS reported nearly 2,100 positive COVID cases among students and staff the week of Jan. 17.

After Feb. 2, the safe practices will be relaxed except for schools that have reached a 5 percent positivity rate among students and staff during a two-week period. At least two APS high schools, Eldorado and Volcano Vista, have crossed the 5-percent threshold.