GF School Board still wrestling over mask mandates

By the narrowest of margins the Grand Forks School Board last night rejected a motion to require masks for students and staff in schools.  Members wrestled with last week’s decision to recommend face coverings for all indoor settings.

Board member Amber Flynn argued in favor of the mandate saying it was important to keep kids in school with no scheduled distance learning options this fall.  ” truly believe our public health professionals are practically begging us to mandate masks.”

Superintendent Terry Brenner says if masking is the policy students would not be allowed to enter a school building without one.

The board rejected requiring masks on a four to four tie vote – with one member absent.  Board member Shannon Mikula requested the issue be put on the agenda next week.  “I want an administrative assessment on the cost to the school district if we have “X” number of classrooms shut down.”

Those supporting the motion to require masks until at least October 20th were:  Jacqueline Hassett…Cynthia Schabb…Shannon Mikula…and Amber Flynn.

Board President Dr. Eric Lunn was absent from the meeting.