William J. Kemble is reporting for the Daily Freeman with less than a month before schools reopen, the state Education Department August 10, told local school districts it will issue guidance for COVID-19 protection. In a memo sent to school leaders statewide, Commissioner Betty A. Rosa accused state health officials and the governor’s office of failing to sufficiently assist with plans for the 2021-22 school year. Rosa said the document, "...will be based on Center for Disease Control guidelines and guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics. This is necessary in light of the continued absence of health-related school opening direction and assistance from the governor’s office and the state Department of Health.” Rosa did acknowledge that her department does not have jurisdiction over public health, but does "possess oversight authority for schools." The letter appears to be a response to the August 5, announcement by the state Department of Health that further guidance was not coming to school districts. “Schools and school districts should develop plans to open in-person in the fall as safely as possible,” announced state Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker. Read the full story in the Daily Freeman.