VWSD parent concerned child was asked to wear mask during practice, we reached out for clarification

A concerned parent reached out to Vicksburg Daily News seeking clarification on staff members at Vicksburg-Warren School District (VWSD) requiring students to wear masks for certain activities.

While the mask mandate at the schools is no longer in place, the parent was confused as to why their child was asked to wear a mask during sports practice.

The parent, who wishes to remain anonymous, posed the question, “Does a teacher, coach or bus driver have the authority to require a mask since there is no mandate?”

We reached out to Christy Kilroy, spokesperson for the district. While our question was ambiguous, so as not to identify the student or parent, Kilroy offered this insight into how the issue of masks is being addressed:

Because the information I received was vague, I can’t answer specifically. Generally, the VWSD follows all possible CDC and MSDH recommendations as a guide for Covid protocol. For athletics and activities, the District will continue to follow the Mississippi High School Activities Association, CDC and MSDH guidelines.

The District has prepared a return to school (students) flowchart to help parents and administrators know what to do if they have tested positive for or have been exposed to Covid-19. We have also published our Continuity of Services Plan approved by the Board in our last board meeting.

The continuity of service plan can be accessed by clicking this link. The flowchart for parents and administrators can be accessed here.