VALDOSTA, Ga. (WTXL) — The Valdosta Board of Education voted during Tuesday's work session to require face coverings for students and all spectators at sporting events.
The Valdosta Board of Education voted during the 8/25 work session to require face coverings for students. Additionally, all spectators at sporting events will be required to wear face coverings. Please see the amendment to the current student dress code regarding the amendment. pic.twitter.com/GtTsekObC2
— Go Cats! (@GoValdostaCats) August 26, 2020
The Board said their decision is based on CDC recommendations that people wear face coverings in public settings and when around people who don’t live within the same household, especially when other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain.
"Therefore, in accordance with the CDC recommendation, face coverings, (i.e. masks, shields, gaiters, etc.), that cover the nose and mouth will be required to be worn by all students, employees, and visitors on all Valdosta City Schools campuses."
Masks will be part of the student dress code with repercussions for noncompliance.
After three offenses the student will receive in-school suspension.
Superintendent Todd Cason says he wasn’t in favor of a mandate at first but this is an added safety precaution for students and teachers.
"Because now we've seen in other districts children have contracted the virus we feel it would be necessary for us to definitely mandate masks to help us minimize the spread," said Cason.
Valdosta City Schools return to the classroom on Sept. 8.
