Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools: Board Of Education Approves Universal Face-Covering Requirements

Press release from Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools:

7/30/2021

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education voted July 30 to approve universal face coverings in all schools and educational office buildings for the 2021-2022 year, effective immediately. The requirement applies to all students over the age of 2, staff, volunteers and visitors inside buildings and buses. Face coverings will remain optional outdoors on all school sites.

"This decision aligns with local and state guidance, as well as national guidelines, which address the Delta variants of COVID-19," said Elyse Dashew, chair of the Board of Education. "The infection numbers in our county are cause for serious concern – and significant precautions to protect our students and staff."

The Board vote followed a recommendation by Superintendent Earnest Winston that face coverings are required indoors at schools. Exceptions will be made following the guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control or North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.

"The Delta variant is causing alarm for public health officials and medical professionals. It's more contagious. It's apparently more dangerous in terms of severity," Winston said. "Infection rates around the country, in our state and in our area are rising rapidly. Hospitalizations are likewise increasing at rapid rates. Staff and student health and safety are our highest priority. For that reason, we made the recommendation, and our Board supported and voted for it."

The Board decision extends to the entire school year. However, Winston will review the situation at the end of each academic quarter, or sooner if indicated by local metrics and evolving guidance.

This press release was produced by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. The views expressed here are the author’s own.