Schools Regain Some Local Control

Share

The final decision-making authority over COVID-19 protocols in the classroom has been restored to locally-elected school boards, according to State Sen. Jil Tracy (R-Quincy).

On July 9, the federal Centers for Disease Control (CDC) released its updated Guidance for COVID-19 Prevention in Kindergarten (K)-12 Schools. Immediately thereafter, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced it was fully adopting the CDC’s updated guidance for schools.

Tracy says the updated guidance that school districts received from the state on masking and social distancing in the classroom comes in the form of recommendations instead of requirements. By making these recommendations, it allows local school districts to make final determinations based on what works best for their communities.

While school officials now have final say on COVID-19 protocols within their buildings, the updated guidance states masks “should” be worn indoors by all individuals (ages 2 and older) who are not fully vaccinated, and recommends that if school administrators remove any prevention strategies based on local conditions that they should do so “one at a time” to monitor the effect on COVID-19 cases.

Despite the local control, masks will still be required for all passengers on school buses in accordance with CDC guidelines, regardless of the schools’ mask policies.

***Story courtesy of Senator Jil Tracy***

Spread the word

Trending Now

Featured News Podcasts

Subscribe to our Community Newsletter

By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: Prairie Communications, 55 Public Square, Monmouth, IL, 61462, https://977wmoi.com/. You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact

Choose a Category

Continue Reading

Beat that Cold: Tips for at Home

Runny noses, sore throats and coughs are back in season. For parents, it’s a yearly dance with kids at school and family gatherings that help spread germs, colds and viruses.