Pre-K and up now to practice COVID-19 mitigation measures
In an post on social media today, the Waxahachie I.S.D. announced that face masks will be required for all students from Pre-K up after the Christmas break.
In the post, WISD Superintendent Bonnie Cain is quoted: “We have made the decision to require face coverings for all students (Pre-K-12th grade) when they return from the holiday break on January 7, 2021. We are seeing an increasing number of students who are required to quarantine due to close contact without a face covering. Wearing a face covering greatly reduces the likelihood that a student will be required to quarantine if another child in his/her class is COVID-positive.”
Formerly, only students from the 4th grade and up were required to wear a face mask.
Ms. Cain continues: “Many of our younger students have already been voluntarily wearing face coverings, and we believe requiring this of all students will be added protection in keeping students and staff healthy.
“Approved face coverings include masks (disposable or reusable), shields, buffs/gaiters, etc. Please ensure your child’s face covering is sized to fit his or her face. Smaller-sized masks for young children are available at many local retailers, including Target, Walmart, CVS, and JC Penney.
“Some physicians are following the CDC option to require that patients quarantine for only seven days when exposed to a confirmed COVID-19 positive individual. Waxahachie ISD will continue to follow the recommended CDC guideline to quarantine 14 days from exposure, even if a physician writes a note with a different timeline.
“Students may continue to learn online while they are quarantined.Over the holiday break, we encourage you to be vigilant in following safety protocols to stay healthy. Wear face coverings, wash or sanitize hands regularly, and limit the number of people with whom you and your children come into contact. This will help ensure that all of our students can be back in class on Jan. 7.”
Since November 20, 2020, WISD has experienced a 187% increase in COVID-19 cases among students, from 16 to 46 by December 11, 2020.
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