A mask mandate in the ICCSD was reinstated unanimously last night at the September 14 school board meeting.

In all indoor settings, students and faculty must wear masks unless actively eating and drinking. Additionally, masks are required in outdoor settings when social distancing is not possible.  Athletes do not need to wear masks when playing, but those in bleachers and in stands must abide by the mandate. 

Community members spoke before the vote, both negating and supporting a district-wide mask mandate. Arguments in favor of the mandate included parent exhaustion concerning the safety of their children. Parents presented petitions signed by community members in support of the mandate, and also expressed  concern for their careers when having to take care of students.

Those against a district-wide mandate argued that masks are detrimental to student mental health, and it should be a personal decision to wear a mask at school. 

The mandate was suggested by the ICCSD legal council, and went into effect the morning of Wednesday, September 15.