School districts review mask policies following new guidance ahead of academic year Ted S. Warren/AP FILE - In this Feb. 2, 2021, file photo, students wear masks as they work in a fourth-grade classroom, at Elk Ridge Elementary School in Buckley, Wash. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren, File) and last updated 2021-07-21 19:16:58-04 RICHMOND, Va. -- Many school districts in the Metro Richmond area said, for the most part, they are beginning to review the new guidance issued Wednesday covering COVID-19 preventative measures for the upcoming school year. However, on Wednesday evening, Richmond Public Schools announced that they will maintain their 100% mask policy for all students, staff members and visitors.