From The Tribune staff reports
TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville City School system is still awaiting more information from Alabama health officials before officially making a decision about requiring or recommending masking at the start of the 2021-22 school year, but as of right now, masks are only recommended.
The school system sent out an explanation of what they are discussing, to parents and students.
“It is our intent to follow health guidelines for the safety and well-being of all students and staff,” the school system said in a letter. “It is important to understand the interpretation of recommendations verses requirements.”
The letter explained and gave the following examples of the differences between the two terms:
Example #1) The CDC and the AAP have recommended COVID-19 vaccinations for persons 12 and older. This means COVID-19 vaccinations are suggested and encouraged, but not required.
Example #2) The CDC and the AAP have currently recommended that students wear masks when they return to school. This was discussed at the board meeting July 19. This means masking children is suggested and encouraged, but not required. This is where we were July 19 and where we are today.
Example #3) Last year, there was a mask mandate for a period of time in Alabama. This meant that everyone was required to wear a mask. This requirement was commanded by the authority of the Governor and was compulsory for everyone. This is where we were last year.
While Birmingham City Schools and Huntsville City Schools have determined that students and will have to wear masks, whether they are vaccinated or not, some Trussville parents have pushed back against the idea.
In an online petition against requiring masks, there were 637 signatures as of Wednesday.
“Trussville City Schools do not need to participate in political theater,” the petition stated. “Let’s allow our children go back to normal. They need it.”
TCS said as of Wednesday, the school system is suggesting and encouraging the masking of children but that it is not required. Specific plans for the school system will be released on or before Aug. 2.