On February 7, 2022, Governor Phil Murphy decided to lift the “Universal School Mask Mandate,” effective March 7, 2022.

With a major decrease in cases and COVID-19 reports, Governor Murphy came to the determination that schools could move forward without the mandate.

Throughout the school year, masks have been a controversial topic for both students and parents in regards to whether they are necessary or not, and with the removal of the mandate, the choice is now in the hands of students.

Of course, with every topic, there’s varying opinions surrounding the decision by Murphy.

“I think the mask removal is a step towards normalcy, but I hope everyone still takes the necessary precautions when they feel sick so we don’t have a breakout,” stated one Hillsborough High School Senior.

Another student emphasized the restitution of freedom with the lifting of the mask mandate:

“I think it’s a good idea because it gives us the freedom to choose what we want to do.  We can still wear it if we want and if it makes us feel safer, but it’s not mandatory.”

Overall, the general opinion is quite positive with the decision to lift the mask mandate, though precautions still must be followed to ensure the safety of all.