Clarifications about Exemptions from Mask Wearing
Some students and staff are exempt from wearing masks in school and while riding on school buses. We expect all staff and students to be respectful of those who wear masks and those who cannot wear a mask for medical and other reasons for which an exemption applies. Harassment, bullying, or discrimination of any type against individuals for wearing or not wearing masks will not be tolerated. Concerns with mask-wearing should be raised with administration.
There may be issues with other students asking questions about the exempted student, or directing questions or comments to them. School staff are working to address any bullying or teasing about this. Families are also asked to have supportive and empathetic conversations at home if their children are worried about being in class or on a bus with someone who has an exemption.
Q: What is a reason for a student to be exempted from wearing a mask?
A: Students are exempt from wearing a mask if:
- Their ability to breathe in any way is inhibited by the face covering.
- They have a medical reason they cannot wear a face covering safely, such as, but not limited to, respiratory disease, cognitive difficulties or difficulties in hearing or processing information.
- The student cannot put on or take off a face covering without assistance.
Q: Are face shields a replacement for face coverings for students who are exempt from wearing face coverings?
A: According to WDGPH, face shields do not provide full coverage of the mouth, nose and chin, so they do not contain respiratory droplets like a face covering. Face shields are not recommended as a substitute for cloth face coverings. The face shield alone isn’t going to stop those student’s droplets from travelling, as they are likely to disperse out around the shield. It may stop the occasional large droplet that’s travelling fast, for instance from a cough or sneeze, but for the most part, droplets are going to be out in the air. Face shields provide some protection to the person wearing it as it covers the eyes which is another mucous membrane that the virus can enter. From a public health perspective, the school cannot require someone to wear a face shield if they are exempt for any reason (medical, cognitive difficulties, learning disabilities, etc.)
Q: If a student has a mask exemption, what other preventative measures can be taken?
A: Face coverings are just one method for the prevention of spreading respiratory droplets. Other preventative measures include hand and respiratory hygiene, physical distancing, classroom layout, daily self-screening, etc.
This is a stressful time for our school community and the community at large, and we appreciate everyone’s understanding. Thank you for continuing to complete the COVID-19 School Screening each day and for following the guidance of Public Health.
Mrs. Baker and Ms. Jones
Categories: School News