Evadale ISD ends mask mandate, social distancing

Photo of Isaac Windes
The Evadale ISD sign stands outside the high school campus. The Evadale Independent School District closed all campuses Tuesday due to a student testing postive for the coronavirus. Photo made on August 18, 2020. Fran Ruchalski/The Enterprise
The Evadale ISD sign stands outside the high school campus. The Evadale Independent School District closed all campuses Tuesday due to a student testing postive for the coronavirus. Photo made on August 18, 2020. Fran Ruchalski/The EnterpriseFran Ruchalski / Fran Ruchalski/The Enterprise

Evadale ISD is the latest school district to stop requiring masks for staff and students while at school. It’s also ending the mandate for maintaining social distance on campus.

The school board voted on the mask matter at a Monday night board meeting, and the change was effective Tuesday.

“Individuals that feel more comfortable may continue to wear masks or face coverings,” a statement released by the district said. “Those with compromised immune systems are encouraged to wear a mask or face covering.”

According to an amended plan posted by the district on social media, social distancing of at least 6 feet will no longer be encouraged in addition to the end of the mask requirements.

Hand sanitizer will still be readily available and screening for coronavirus symptoms, including a daily temperature check, will continue.

The decision comes after Gov. Greg Abbott rescinded the statewide mask mandate and the Texas Education Agency released guidance stating that mask requirements would remain in place for schools, unless the district’s board of trustees discussed and voted to opt out.

isaac.windes@hearstnp.com

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