Mt. Pleasant school board hears parents’ opinons on mask mandate

The Mt. Pleasant school board wanted to hear parents’ thoughts about masks in schools.

Monday night, parents had the opportunity to have their voices heard.

Nothing was voted on in the meeting.

Prior to the meeting, a survey was created that ran from Thursday to Monday. The survey was given to students, faculty and parents pre-K through 12.

It asked the simple question, "Should Mt. Pleasant Community School District implement a mask mandate for all staff and all students?"

Out of the 858 responses received from the survey, just over 70% said they would not favor a mask mandate.

A vast majority of the people that turned up at the meeting were not in favor of a mandate.

There were many arguments made on both sides of the issue.

For many parents against their children wearing masks, one of the main arguments revolved around social issues. They believe that their children don't get the entire social experience in school – social cues, smiles, hard to hear – limiting their enjoyment of school.

An emotional high school student reiterated this, saying that masks hindered the joy she feels in school.

A parent also argued that masks caused discomfort on their child's face, causing chapped lips.

Others argued that it's their right to make decisions regarding their children.

Another said they want to "continue to see their kids smile."

As for those parents in favor of the mask mandate, the bulk of them stated that they would want a temporary mandate.

One of the main arguments is that many have younger children, 12 or younger, who can't get the vaccine.

Another parent's child has health conditions and did not feel comfortable putting them at risk.

School board President Jennifer Crull was thankful that parents came and voiced their opinion considering it affects their children.

"I want to thank all of you for coming," Crull said. "As I said, tonight is really about the board just listening. Obviously, we're going to use our data, along with absentee rates.

“We just wanted parents to have their say. I really appreciate everyone showing up and sharing their viewpoint."

The board will have further discussion on the topic within the next week.

Comments: hunter.moeller@southeastiowaunion.com