It's the first time in two years-- all public school students will no longer be required to wear face masks and social distance from their peers outdoors at all 41 Guam Department of Education campuses starting Wednesday.

GDOE Deputy Superintendent of Operations Erika Cruz explained in a phone interview with KUAM News that the island’s largest school system is just following the governor’s orders.

"We’re simply following the Executive Order 22-09 as well as Public Health 22-11 amendment 02 which allows for all individuals to not have to use face masks outdoors as well as the physical distancing," she said

GDOE noted that this is specifically for the outdoors only.

Additionally, face masks will also not be mandated for GDOE’s Interscholastic Sports Association or ISA outdoor competitions.

Although the use of face coverings is optional outdoors, GDOE will continue to encourage wearing them as well as push practicing social distancing for "the safety of students, employees, and the community".

Face masks and physical distancing mandates will continue to be implemented indoors at GDOE schools and for ISA games.

Safety measures will continue to be implemented for GDOE such as disinfection of rooms and surfaces, providing hand sanitizers, and frequent hand washing, among other measures outlined in the U.S. Centers for Disease Control guidance.