Summerland school board reassesses mask mandate

After listening to multiple parents address Summerland School's mask mandate during the public participation segment of the March 16 school board meeting, members voted to make masks optional for students and staff, effective March 17.

Patron Dustin Wright asked board members if they had changed their minds about the mandated mask policy since the last meeting.

"I feel like we've been through this three times already," he said.

Several patrons listed area schools that have recently relaxed mask mandates, including Plainview and Chambers.

Several patrons commented that whether a student wears a mask should be a parental decision.

Sara Lemburg echoed comments from the crowd, noting a health district or CDC recommendation for masks is not the same as a requirement.

"I'd like you to keep in mind, these kids are my kids. They're not the government's kids, they're not the CDC's kids, they're not the state health department's kids ... they are my kids and I don't feel it's right for you guys to continue to force them wear a mask. That can be very detrimental, in itself," she said.

Other patrons asked if all staff members have received the vaccine.

Supt. Dale Martin said staff members have had an opportunity to be vaccinated, although not all staff members have chosen to receive the shot.

Martin said the local health department's stance on wearing masks has not changed.

"Quarantine rules have shortened. Sometimes, depending on the exposure level, they'll say both parties need masked and monitored," he said.

Martin provided board members with documentation of how other area districts are handling mask-wearing policies.

He said local administrators discussed the policy March 15.

"We feel it is time to go to optional mask wearing and leave it up to parents to decide whether or not they are going to send their child with a mask. It's totally fine for them to do that if they wish to do that. If they choose not to again, at this point in time, I think we feel more comfortable with it because of the staff getting the first round of vaccine," he said.

Martin cautioned the policy may need to be reinstated if quarantines or exposures are reported.

Nate Schwager made a motion to make masks optional for students in preschool through grade 12 and staff, effective March 17. Candice Hoke seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.