This post was created on 02/15/2021.

Land O’ Lakes, FL – (February 15, 2021) – Pasco County Schools has announced a new set of rules effective today that will allow for more spectators at school sporting events and more audience members at performing arts events.

The new rules would allow 50 percent capacity at all outdoor events, including both athletic events and performing arts events. Indoor athletic events would be limited to four spectators for each athlete, which is double the number of spectators currently allowed. Indoor performing arts events will be limited with up to four audience members per performer, with a 50 percent capacity.

The new rules will go into effect today, Monday, February 15.

The rules regarding masks have not changed. At outdoor events, spectators and audience members still will be required to wear masks while entering and leaving the venue, and when leaving their seats to visit the concession stand or rest room. Masks are not required while spectators are seated at the event. Spectators and audience members still will be required to maintain appropriate social distance with anyone other than direct family members.

The revised rules were established after Pasco County experienced a promising decrease in local COVID-19 cases and infection rates. The rules were established after consultation with the Pasco Department of Health.

“We want parents and friends to be able to attend school events, so long as it can be done safely,” said Kurt Browning, Pasco Superintendent of Schools. “With all decisions we make, our first priority is the health and safety of our student, staff, and families.”