Seneca High recommending but not requiring masks for unvaccinated students

Seneca High School is recommending all unvaccinated students wear a mask when they return for full, in-person learning this school year.

It is not, however, mandatory, Seneca High Superintendent Dan Stecken said.

“The board of education has drafted and will adopt a resolution that will allow the administration and board local control to recommend masks for our students, staff and visitors but not mandate,” Stecken said during Wednesday’s meeting. “This ultimately allows parents and guardians to determine the best choice for their sons and daughters.”

No parents commented during Wednesday’s meeting.

School staff will continue encouraging social distancing.

Everyone on school buses, including passengers and drivers, must continue to wear a mask.

Seneca High School’s first day for freshmen is scheduled Monday, Aug. 16, with a half day for freshmen only the next day as well.

Sophomores, juniors and seniors will have their first day of school on Wednesday, Aug. 18.

Seneca’s recommendation is in line with CDC recommendations earlier this month that vaccinated students do not have to wear masks in classrooms. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommended Monday, however, all children older than 2 wear masks when returning to school this year, regardless of vaccination status.