January 25, 2022

Dear Stillwater Community:

Last evening, we became aware of a court case from Nassau County, NY, in which the County Supreme Court Thomas Rademaker issued a ruling that the state Department of Health exceeded its authority in enacting the mask regulation, 10 NYCRR 2.60. The case is called Demetriou et al. v. New York State Dep’t of Health et al.

Subsequently, schools received the following message from the State Education Department:

“A state judge on Long Island has ruled that the state’s mask mandate is unconstitutional and a violation of state law, but more litigation is expected. As a result, nothing changes for schools, according to a statement from the State Education Department (SED).

“It is SED’s understanding that the Department of Health will appeal the Nassau County Supreme Court decision, which will result in an automatic stay that will unambiguously restore the mask rule until such time as an appellate court issues a further ruling,” according to SED’s statement, which was sent to superintendents. “Therefore, schools must continue to follow the mask rule.”

Stillwater Central School District will follow the State Education Department’s directive, and we appreciate your patience and understanding as we learn more about the ruling, the appeal and potential stay. We will share any additional information with you as we receive it.

Thank you for your support and partnership in our efforts to keep our schools open this year.

Sincerely,
Patricia Morris
Superintendent of Schools