The Bridgeport Diocese isn't waiting until Feb. 28 to lift the mask mandate in its Catholic schools.

The diocese superintendent sent a letter to parents saying masks are optional starting Monday.

Nora Dannehy, chief counsel for the governor's office, says the diocese does not have the authority to do that under the current executive order, which does not expire until the end of the month.

The state Department of Education sent the Diocese a letter Tuesday saying, "Terminating the mask mandate as of Feb. 14 would be in contravention of law. Connecticut State Department of Education is asking that the Diocese discontinue its plans to terminate the legally required mask mandate on Feb. 14."

News 12 reached out to the Diocese and is waiting to hear back.