District to require masks for preschool to sixth grade

Elyria City Schools students will return for the 2021-22 school year with inperson learning, five days per week, starting Sept. 7, according to a news release from the district.

Earlier this month, the district announced a return plan that included a “strong recommendation” for masks in school and on school grounds.

That recommendation stands, however, the district is now requiring that masks must be worn by students in preschool through sixth grade until further notice, the release said.

Elyria Schools officials say the new provision directly correlates with the recent uptick in coronavirus cases in Elyria and Lorain County, and the fact that students younger than the age of 12 are not yet eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

Masks are required on school buses, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Students will be provided with regular mask breaks and may remove them during lunch, recess and physical activity, the release said.

Citing guidance from the CDC, the district added that staying home when sick and having good hygiene are important factors in preventing illness.

All individuals ages 12 and older are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, which is why masks are not required for this age group.

“The district will continue to work closely with Lorain County Public Health and adapt its plan accordingly based on new guidance,” the release continued.