Masks Optional For ISD 47 Students, Staff

(KNSI) – Students and staff going back to class in the Sauk Rapids-Rice School District will have an option to wear masks.

Independent School District 47 had its COVID 19 Safe Learning Plan approved by its administration and presented to the school board on August 9th.

Superintendent Brad Bergstrom is aware of local healthcare providers’ recommendations but feels this is what’s best for the district.

“We appreciate the recommendations that are coming from from our friends at CentraCare. We also appreciate the feedback that we get from the CDC ant the Department of Health. Those are all great pieces. When it comes to making a decision, we really are looking at what we think is best for our school and for our kids.”

Bergstrom says the district had two critical objectives when they put their plan together.

“Number one is we want kids in person, that is a goal and objective. We feel that that’s the best way to educate them. And the second thing that’s really important for us as we want to do it safely for our staff and students. And in our plan as it sits, we feel at this point in time that we can accomplish that.”

He says safety is about more than face coverings. The district’s COVID Safe Learning Plan includes social distancing, limiting contact points, limiting entrances, frequent hand washing, health screenings, and enhanced cleaning protocols.

The St. Cloud Area School District and the Sartell-St. Stephen School District had put mask requirements in place to start the school years. Like Sauk Rapids, Catholic Community Schools in St. Cloud is also keeping masks optional.

Find District 47’s return to school plan by clicking here.

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