SUMMERS COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS)– This evening, the Summers County School Board discussed the recommendations for mask-wearing in schools at their school board meeting.
Superintendent David Warvel recommended that children and employees wear masks from August 23 (the start of school) to September 3. The board would then reconvene on September 3 to discuss if masks would be worn the following week. Warvel says masks will be worn if the DHHR map shows any color other than green or yellow.
With these recommendations, students and employees would wear masks in the classroom. On school buses, students are required to wear masks. Warvel mentioned that masks on school buses are “non-negotiable.” If children are outside playing, masks aren’t needed. There are no current limitations on athletics.
“I’ve tried to stay neutral to all parties, so it doesn’t come off as one side versus the other. I’m not into politics. I’m just into school safety and protecting our children as we move forward,” said Warvel.
Warvel also talked about vaccinations in school. He said there would only be one reason for anyone to ask a child or employee if they’re vaccinated.
“The only appropriate time to ask a child or anyone about vaccinations should only be for contact tracing purposes. It’s their business,” said Warvel.
After Superintendent Warvel gave out recommendations, the school board opened it up to public comments. One man advocated for not having masks in school.
“I think children need to return to normalcy. Masks won’t work. It’s that simple,” he said.
Another public speaker said that wearing a mask should be up to the parents and students, not the school.
After public comments, board members were able to give their opinion on the recommendations.
One board member agreed with the public speaker, saying that, “I think it should be up to parents.”
A special meeting will be held in the future to determine mask-wearing and to determine if masks have to be worn the following week for school.
