JCSD Masking Guidelines, Effective Oct. 26

In September, Governor Reynolds, in conjunction with the Iowa Department of Public Health, issued new guidance about when individuals should quarantine after being exposed to a COVID-positive individual. The new guidance states that if both the COVID-positive individual and the close contact(s) were wearing masks then there is no need for close contacts to quarantine.

At a special meeting on October 15, the JCSD Board of Education approved a resolution stating that all staff and students must wear a mask. Per the Board’s resolution, face shields, gaiters, and other items that could be considering a face covering are no longer appropriate unless worn with a proper mask. Per the Center for Disease Control (CDC), “A proper mask must be two or more layers of breathable fabric, completely cover your nose and mouth, and fit snugly against the sides of your face and does not have gaps.” Masks with vents do not meet this definition.

This new requirement will begin on October 26 for both staff and students. If students or staff do not have a mask, buildings will have disposable masks available for use. If you have a medical exemption with orders against wearing a mask, please make certain that your school principal is aware. Thank you for your help in keeping our school community safe.

All graphics in this poster have been created by the CDC.