The mask mandate was lifted at Fairfield ISD school campuses, after the Board of Trustees listened to comments from thirty-six individuals, including parents, educators and citizens during the Monday, March 15, 2021 school board meeting.

Many of those in favor of lifting the mandate emphasized that the choice should be up to the parents of students. A few noted the difficulty of teachers enforcing the mask mandate, and that it interfered with educating.

One suggested that masks can cause “mental health issues,” and an unnamed substitute teacher stated that masks are “breathing in your own poison.”

For those opposed to lifting the mask mandate, many stated that the school should simply finish out the year in the way they started.

“COVID is still an issue,” said one commenter, while a health care worker pointed out that “there are no vaccinations for children.”

One citizen stated that we should not get rid of masks just because we are tired of the pandemic.

A parent said, “My child has a genetic disorder and masks decrease their risk of exposure.” Another commenter state that “all kids deserve a safe environment.”

Ultimately, a motion was made by O. B. Utley, and seconded by Kirby Flandry, to make the mask mandate a choice for FISD stakeholders. The motion passed with John Fryer and Greg Gibson voting against the motion.

With the mask mandate repealed, effective immediately, parents were emailed that night.

It was noted during the meeting that all of TEA’s guidelines for COVID-19 safety will still be in place, including social distancing and deep cleaning.

Also during this meeting, following Executive Session, the Board approved the sale of ten acres of real property (Dogan campus). Fairfield ISD will begin the process to accept sealed bids.

Other business is as follows:

–Mrs. Scires presented on behalf of FIS and showcased her campus and staff. Congrats to Mitchell Pate for being named FIS Teacher of the Year!

–Consent Agenda was approved.

–Missed school day waiver was approved for the snow days missed in February.

–A severe weather resolution was approved to pay “premium pay” to our hourly employees who worked during the school closure the week of February 15th. The resolution also gives me the authority to get all repairs taken care of.

–A Joint Election Agreement was approved between the Fairfield ISD and the City of Fairfield.

–The board discussed options to pay for “tuition only” for students wishing to participate in TSTC classes next fall. Superintendent Dr. Jason Adams will be putting together some guidelines for this process.

–Enrollment is at 1643.

–The board discussed options and dates for board training in April.

Following Executive Session:

–An employee’s Level III grievance was denied.

–Campus contracts were approved for teachers, counselors, nurses, and administration on each campus.

–Bi-County Coop personnel were approved for contracts.