FORT WAYNE, Ind. (ADAMS) – Kids in Fort Wayne are going to have to wear masks in the classroom to start the year, while kids around Fort Wayne will have a choice.
On Monday night, Fort Wayne Community Schools agreed to require masks this year.
Superintendent Mark Daniel says a new mask mandate is the best way to keep kids in class, in-person this year.
Everyone in Fort Wayne Schools, regardless of their vaccination status, will have to wear a mask. But kids in other Fort Wayne-area schools will have a choice. Masks will be optional at Northwest Allen County Schools and East Allen County Schools. Southwest Allen County Schools leaders say that masks are recommended.
Fort Wayne Community Schools released the following:
Beginning Wednesday, Aug. 11, all staff, students and visitors to FWCS will be required to wear face masks will inside FWCS buildings.
The decision to move to a mask requirement was made after lengthy discussions with local health officials and staff members. Masks will be required regardless of vaccination status.
“With COVID-19 cases on the rise again and low vaccination rates among students, we must take precautions,” Superintendent Dr. Mark Daniel said. “Our first priority for the school year is to keep students at all grade levels in school five days a week. We know students learn best in person, and we have a lot to do this year.”
The first day of school for students is Monday, Aug. 16.
