To Mask or Not To Mask

Ahhhh, fresh air. It’s been a hot commodity over the last two years and now we can finally enjoy it without the confines of our masks. As of 28 January, ICS has aligned its practice with CDC recommendations and has now moved to a “mask optional” model for vaccinated students and staff when outdoors.

For many, this news comes as a huge relief after 2 years of strict mask-wearing. Children have not seen the faces of their teachers or classmates since early 2020. Teachers and staff have a hard time recognizing and connecting with each other. With the number of Covid cases relatively low on campus, it seems we have reached a point where there is a heightened need to balance everyone’s wellbeing with pandemic safety.

“My son was not even two when the pandemic started but he remembers life before masks. While he has never been able to keep on a mask for more than 5 minutes, this is the first time he has seen his teacher’s smiles so I’m glad things are easing up a little. Afterall, covid is not going away anytime soon we must learn to live with it sustainably.” - EY parent

“I never imagined raising young children during a time like this so I long for a day when they can experience childhood like us. Even removing masks during distanced outdoor play feels like a small step in the right direction and for that, I am grateful.” - Marti, ES parent “There was a time I used to know everyone on campus. Now I can’t tell apart new staff from old staff, and it’s harder to establish a connection when you can’t see someone’s expression.” - Member of staff

For others, there is some concern. They worry that if the community becomes too lax, all the hard work that has been accomplished to date may be reversed by a spike in cases leading to grade-level closures.

“The last thing I want to see is my child’s class shutting down. Everyone takes off their mask while eating in the cafeteria anyway so I think that’s enough of a break. I worry that when you make it an official rule the risk increases.” - MS parent

Though mixed feelings are inevitable, students and staff should exercise caution and continue to wear masks even when outside if they are high-risk, have high-risk family members, or are unvaccinated.