Mask Mandate For Douglas County Elementary Schools Will End In December

DOUGLAS COUNTY, GA — Last week, middle schools, high schools and administrative offices in the Douglas County School System no longer required masks — and soon, elementary schools will join them.

Beginning Monday, Dec. 13, masks will no longer be required in DCSS elementary schools, Superintendent Trent North said in a letter to parents Wednesday. They will still be "strongly recommended," but not mandatory, just as they are in the rest of the school system.

North used the December date because by that time, elementary-aged students will have had the opportunity to become fully vaccinated against COVID-19, if their parents chose to get them vaccinated. Masks will still be required for all students and adults on school buses.

"Please know that we respect our parents and their decisions regarding vaccination for their children," North said. "Again, thank you for your support as we work to make the best decisions for our students and staff."

Children ages 5 to 11 became eligible for a lower dosage of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine in early November, and the district has hosted several vaccination clinics at multiple schools in October and November.

The elementary school mask announcement comes nine days after DCSS officials lifted the mask requirement for all other schools and admin offices, and as new COVID-19 cases in the county remain relatively low. In the most recent report Nov. 5-11, there were 23 new cases reported in local schools.

Related:

• Mask Mandate Relaxed For Middle, High Schools In Douglas County
• More COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic Dates Offered By Douglas Schools
• COVID-19 Vaccination Events Hosted By Douglas County Schools
• COVID Vaccine For Kids Under 12: Where To Get One In GA