Eastern Pulaski students will not be required to wear masks when they return school next month, but Superintendent Dara Chezem says it’s okay if they do.
“Eastern Pulaski Community School Corporation supports any individual who wears a mask and will not tolerate bullying based on an individual’s vaccination status or mask wearing,” she says.
The CDC recommends masks for those who aren’t vaccinated. But Chezem says the school corporation can’t require proof of vaccination, so the school reopening plan leaves it up to individuals and families. However, masks will be required on school buses, due to a federal mandate.
Chezem says all grade levels will be open for in-person learning five days per week, with no virtual option. Many of the current COVID-19 precautions will remain in place. That means assigned seats in the classroom, cafeteria, and on the bus. “Students should continue to bring their own clear water bottles, and filling stations will be available,” Chezem adds. “Water fountains will continue not to be available for traditional use.”
Hand sanitizer stations will remain available throughout the schools. Chezem says plans may change, due to state and federal mandates or local positivity rates.
