Howard County schools announce mask mandate changes; address moving forward procedures

As the State of Texas launches back into 100% re-opening of businesses and the cancellation of the mask mandate kicks in, area schools - along with many local businesses - look at how to move forward. This past week the three area schools made announcements regarding how they will move forward regarding wearing of masks on school campuses.

Governor Greg Abbott announced on March 2, 2021 the statewide wearing of masks and face coverings was rescinded. The Executive Order (GA34) lifted the statewide mandate and was announced to begin March 10. After the announcement came, the TEA (Texas Education Agency) announced that an announcement would be made soon and area schools and schools boards began discussing how to move forward.

Three days ago, Coahoma ISD made the announcement on their Facebook page, stating that in response to Governor Greg Abbott’s order, CISD would no longer mandate students or staff to wear a mask beginning March 10, 2021. However, students and staff who prefer to continue to wear a mask may certainly do so, but it is no longer required.

Forsan ISD made their announcement two days ago, stating that beginning March 10 masks are encouraged, but no longer required in all ares of the school district. However, students who ride the bus will need to wear a mask while on the bus.

The TEA issued the response on March 3 stating that masks are still required in public schools, but local school boards can vote to make them optional. Under the updated guidance, the TEA states schools have full authority to determine their local mask policy and the mask requirements may continue unchanged.

Big Spring ISD also made an announcement regarding the changes to the mask mandate, on their Facebook page. Their update stated that while the mandate had been lifted TEA has made it very clear in their guidancethat the mask mandate for kids and adults shall remain in place in all public school settings, unless the local school boardvotes to modify or change the mask mandate policy.

Since the Board of Trustees for BSISD had not convened yet - the meeting will take place this evening - the district will still require masks for the time being. The mask topic will be discussed