Separating Masked, Unmasked Students: LW D210 Responds To Photo

FRANKFORT, IL — A photo making the rounds on social media has gotten Lincoln-Way Community High School District 210 officials' attention. The photo shows a whiteboard in a classroom with instructions for students wearing masks to sit on one side of the room, and those without masks to sit on the other side.

District officials responded by saying that they are "aware of an incident that occurred on Monday relating to the mask-optional policy."

The photo, taken at Lincoln-Way East in Frankfort, started showing up Monday on Facebook, the same day Lincoln-Way D210 instituted a "mask optional" policy at its three high schools — Lincoln-Way East, and Lincoln-Way Central and Lincoln-Way West in New Lenox.

District officials said they anticipated "a difficult transition" to the new mask policy.

"In this situation, the teacher’s intention was to calm apprehension and anxiety," District officials told Patch. "The situation has been addressed, and alternative suggestions have also been provided for supporting students who may be struggling with the transition."

District officials said those "alternative suggestions" include teachers allowing students and/or entire classes to change their seats to a location that makes them feel more comfortable.

"Our staff in the [Pupil Personnel Services] office is always on hand and available for students struggling with any situation at any time," District officials added.

District officials would not comment on if there was any disciplinary action taken against the teacher.

"We appreciate the entire community’s cooperation as we continue to navigate through this ever-changing situation together," District officials said.

Related: Lincoln-Way D210 Goes Mask Optional Following Court Ruling