To the Board of Appoquinimink School District:

We, the undersigned residents of Appoquinimink school district, submit this petition in response to the mask mandate imposed on all Delaware students by the emergency regulations issued from the Department of Education on August 13, 2021.  We understand that you feel compelled to abide by these regulations as failure to comply carries extremely harsh penalties that could negatively impact our students' educations even further. 

One role and responsibility of the Appoquinimink school board is to "express and represent the views of the community in matters affecting education."  Furthermore, according to Board Policy 7101, "the Superintendent shall employ such means at his/her disposal to inform the community of the activities in the school and to remain sensitive to the interests and aspirations of the community in relation to the schools."  Children regaining a sense of normalcy after their immense sacrifices should be amongst our chief aspirations.

The COVID mitigation policies have ignited controversy amongst Delawareans.  As a constituency concerned about these policies, we request that you submit questions on our behalf to the Delaware Department of Education.  We would like to see the evidence that they are using to substantiate their emergency mandates.  We seek information in the following areas:

1. Evidence regarding the efficacy of masks in school settings and the pedagogical implications of masking students and teachers.

2. Any reports or consultations with Industrial and Environmental Hygienists relating to school COVID mitigation mandates and protocols.

3. Metrics used by the Department of Education to indicate a health emergency and to impose or lift restrictions on students.

Transparency and evidence-based decision making are foundational to public trust.  We hope to work together to restore the health of our community with cooperation, not coercion.  Thank you for your attention.