Editor’s note: Westfield Washington Schools has joined other school districts across the county with a mask mandate.
Superintendent Dr. Paul Kaiser said in an announcement the Delta variant is jeopardizing the district’s ability to have in-person learning, athletics, performing arts, clubs and special events.
Kaiser’s full message said the following:
Kaiser
In an effort to keep our students in the buildings and learning at a high level, effective Wednesday, August 18, 2021, Westfield Washington Schools will require students, staff and guests to wear face masks inside of all our buildings. With the updated contact tracing guidelines, students who are 3+ feet from a person with COVID do not have to quarantine, so long as both parties are wearing a mask.
This policy update will allow us to keep more students in a safe, in-person learning environment and increase the chances of Westfield Washington Schools making it through the year without any major learning disruptions.
The mask is just one level of protection. We also ask families and students to follow our COVID-19 protocols, monitor themselves and their students for COVID-19 symptoms, consult a physician if necessary and keep your student home from school if ANYONE in the household is waiting on a COVID-19 test result.
We will continue to evaluate county, state and district COVID-19 data and guidance to evaluate our policies as needed. Thank you for your patience and support as we make this change to keep our schools in session and best serve all students, staff and families.
Let’s work together to have a successful school year and come out on the other side of this Rock Strong.
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Below is additional information included as part of the school district’s announcement.
Approved masks
Approved masks include cloth, neck gaiter, disposable or medical grade. Bandanas are not approved for use as a mask and face shields will only be used by select staff and students in specific, approved situations.
Vaccination information
COVID-19 vaccinations are currently available for individuals 12 and up through the Indiana Department of Health or by calling 211. Vaccinated students and staff will not be required to quarantine if exposed to someone who has tested positive.
Transportation
According to the current federal guidelines, masks are still required while on public transportation, including school buses.