Putnam Schools To Mandate Masks

The Putnam County Schools will require masks be worn inside all school facilities including classrooms when schools reopen.

Multiple local medical professionals made the suggestion to school officials during review of the system’s return to school plan. Masks should be worn when social distancing cannot be practiced, according to school officials.

“We understand that this change to our Return to School plan will create an uncomfortable environment for many students, faculty, and staff members,” the system said in a release. “But we also want to be as safe as possible as we return to school during the current pandemic.”

The release said the change is a result of a growing number of active cases.

“We cannot ignore these strong recommendations from our local medical providers that are tasked with treating our students and families and maintaining the health of our community as a whole,” the release said. “Our hope is that the spread of COVID will slow to a level within our community where some of these requirements can be lifted.”