It's the first day of school for some Wake, Cumberland students

It's their first full year of school since the 2018-19 academic year.

Although the state will recommend but no longer enforce mask-wearing in schools, Cumberland students and staff starting the new school year Monday will be required to wear masks indoors.

The policy is designed "with a focus on the health and safety of our students and staff," the district said. "Year-round students and staff will be required to wear face masks while at school until further notice."

A statewide mask mandate for schools doesn't expire until July 30, the fifth day of year-round school in the county, which also led to the decision.

District leaders are reviewing the state Department of Health and Human Services updated guidance with local health leaders. The district plans to release a new plan at the end of the week that will have updated COVID-19 guidance.

Parents in Cumberland County and across the state have been split on the mask requirement in schools.

State allows schools to decide if students must wear masks. Cumberland County will start the new year with them on.