How far is far enough? CDC examines 6-foot recommendation in schools There has been a lot of debate on whether there should be a 6-foot or a 3-foot rule? The CDC recommends 6-feet of physical distancing in schools. Author: Jeff Preval Updated: 6:40 PM EDT March 17, 2021 The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says it is now looking at new evidence three feet of distancing is safe. A study released last week out of Massachusetts found reduced physical distancing – from the CDC's current recommendation of 6 feet – can be safe in schools, so long as masks are worn. That has caught the attention of the CDC.