Students across the state of Iowa went to school yesterday for the first time without the requirement of wearing masks. This also included the Sioux City Community School District where Siouxland Public Media’s Sheila Brummer caught up with parents for and against the change.
Early Thursday morning, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds signed a law passed by Republican members of the legislature banning cities, counties, and school district form issuing mask mandates.
A majority of students at Perry Creek Elementary lined up for class Thursday morning without their masks.
“Today is just a relief for a lot or most. I guess, some people want to and that’s their opinion and choice and we have that extra freedom back and that’s pleasant.”
That’s just one opinion from a mother of a 2nd grade student, it’s a sentiment not shared about another with two children in the school.
“I think masks have done a lot of good for our community, I know we are not out woods yet with this pandemic and I’m sure the kids were appreciative of not wearing masks. But, my kids did such a great job year. I think they can do a couple of more weeks with masks and then see how we are doing at the end of the summer.”
A recorded message to parents from the school district did stress a commitment to student and school safety.
“While the SDCSD is complying with the governor’s bill we continue supporting those who choose to still wear masks or face coverings.”
Siouxland Public Media reached out to the school district for an update on COVID-19 cases and quarantines and was told the information will be released during the district’s weekly trend report on Friday.
