We are writing to support the implementation of a universal mask mandate in K-12 schools for the 2021-2022 school year. Some very vocal parents would prefer to choose whether their child wears a mask or not, the reality is that a mask is worn mostly to protect others, so it is essential that every child and adult wear a mask to allow for in-person instruction to continue safety and without interruption. This is the same reason why a person’s “individual liberty” to smoke on an airplane or drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs are restricted by the government—to protect the people around them. To continue the drunk driving metaphor for a moment: the refrain of the “parental choice” crowd that I should send my children to school with masks if I wish is akin to recommending that someone who is concerned about drunk drivers simply wear their own seat belt. This is, quite obviously, utter nonsense.

Here are some facts from the summer enrichment camp:

Fact: On July 21 the Bay Shore School Enrichment Camp (which is run indoors in a school setting) received news of ONE COVID positive case.

Fact: Grades 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 were quarantined. Fact: By Tuesday there were 8 positive cases.

Fact: Within two weeks the 4th grade was also quarantined.

Fact: To date there are more then 20 positive cases from that one case.

Fact. The kids were UNMASKED by choice.

FACT: Camp shut down

Now, imagine what would happen in school buildings with hundreds of students, faculty and staff? We need to follow the advice of both The American Pediatric Association(https://services.aap.org/en/news-room/news-releases/aap/2021/american-academy-of-pediatrics-updates-recommendations-for-opening-schools-in-fall-2021/ and the CDC(https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/k-12-guidance.html recommended(https://services.aap.org/en/news-room/news-releases/aap/2021/american-academy-of-pediatrics-updates-recommendations-for-opening-schools-in-fall-2021/ in regards to school openings. 

The entire country has seen an uptick in positives as the Delta variant has surged. Suffolk country has seen over a 50% surge of positive COVID cases this summer. Add to the fact that many have been traveling for vacations, .

No one wants to see a repeat of the camp debacle during the upcoming school year. This school year will be very important for all students after their worlds were turned upside down over the last 18 months. The children deserve a return to some sort of normalcy and the faculty and staff deserve to feel safe at work. Our elected officials and health experts are called leaders for a reason. We are asking you to live up to that title and lead our schools and communities through these unprecedented challenges—NOT allow selfish preferences to outweigh science and the consideration of all members of our community.
Thank you for all you are doing for the safety of our children. Thank you for your time!