Even though COVID case numbers continue to rise locally, Hall County's school superintendent said Tuesday there are no plans at this point to mandate masking for students.
Will Schofield issued a back-to-school video update, acknowledging that emotions are running high when it comes to students wearing - or not wearing masks - to class.
"Almost a day doesn't go by that I don't receive an email or a call or a text saying 'if you make children wear masks, then I'll be pulling my kids [from the district] forever' or the next one will be, 'if you don't make wear students wear masks, I'll be pulling my kids and we won't be back in the school district forever,'" Schofield said. "I understand that those emotions are real, that those feelings are real."
Still, Schofield said he is disappointed that parents - and others - have chosen sides in a situation where they should be working together.
When school opens for the 2021-2022 school year on Friday, Aug. 6, Schofield said masking for students will be optional, and he and other district officials believe that decision is best for now.
"The best way to deal with COVID is on a day-by-day basis, deliberately taking a look at local conditions and looking at all of the data, not just single pieces," Schofield said.
Schofield said he is aware that the CDC and the Academy of Pediatrics have recommended that children be masked while in school; however, Hall County and 11 school districts bordering Hall County will not mandate face coverings for children.
Schofield noted that while local hospitalizations are rising (113 at NGHS facilities Tuesday), there have been no pediatric hospitalizations for COVID.
More important, Schofield said, is the mental health issues that are increasing among children and adolescents who have been isolated at home during the pandemic. He said it is vital to get students back in the classroom for learning, despite the ongoing pandemic.
To watch Schofield's video and to find out more about the reopening of Hall County schools, follow this link.
