Face Masks
Face masks will be required when social distancing is not possible (ex. passing period and school buses) and in some classrooms if required by the teacher. Students are allowed to wear face masks at other times (ex. in class) if they so choose. The general rule of thumb will be if a student is in their seat, they may remove their face mask. Any time a student needs to move from their assigned seat, they will need to mask up. Face masks will be treated as other articles of student dress in regards to dress code requirements.
District Information
Research tells us that COVID-19 spreads mainly from person to person through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or raises their voice. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of, or be inhaled by, people who are nearby. We now know that a portion of individuals with COVID-19 are asymptomatic, and even those that eventually develop symptoms can transmit the virus before showing any symptoms.
As we return to school, our goal is for students to stay in school and to minimize specific school closures and quarantine situations for students. The CDC and the Indiana Department of Education recommends that face coverings should be worn by staff and students (particularly older students) and are most essential in times when social distancing can not occur. This is supported by the Vanderburgh County Health Department and medical professionals. We recognize that face coverings may be challenging for students and staff (especially younger students) to wear in all-day school settings and have factored that into the plan to protect the health and safety of students, staff and families.
Face masks will be required when social distancing is not possible (ex. passing period and school buses). Students are strongly encouraged to wear them in classrooms to help keep learning environments safe for everyone. Depending on the situation, teachers may ask students to wear their masks while in class. Any time a student needs to move from their assigned seat, they will be required to mask up. Face masks will be treated as other articles of student dress in regards to dress code requirements.
Face coverings should:
• Cover the nose and mouth and be secured to the head with ties or straps or simply wrapped around the lower face.
• Fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face.
• If cloth masks, masks should be washed regularly.
• Include multiple layers of fabric.
• Allow for breathing without restriction.
• Align to school dress codes.
