The CDC officially changed its recommendation regarding physical distancing from six feet of separation to three in schools if students are fully masked.

Chelan-Douglas Health District Administrator Luke Davies says they have been working with school districts in the area saying that's been the biggest barrier to a full return.

"Right now, until the DOH goes through and adjusts with the CDC, we're going to be aligning with the State Department of Health. We're very hopeful that the research will show there's a decreased risk."

Davies says schools are fourth in terms of locations of COVID outbreaks behind places like restaurants and congregate settings.

They are keeping their eyes on the all the studies, formal or informal, as they plan the next steps locally.

"We've had only one reported transmission within a school. We've done a really great job keeping that number, so we know that the six feet works. The question is, what risk is there moving to the three feet. We're just waiting a little bit more information before moving forward."

If students are not masked, the CDC still recommends a six-foot separation.

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