This petition is to specifically recognize the parents of Lamar Consolidated ISD students who do NOT want their children to be forced to wear a mask at school or while using LCISD transportation. These are the children who wish to go back to traditional face to face instruction. 

The ever changing CDC recommendations have caused great confusion. The evidence is showing that strict mandates such as wearing masks are not necessary and possibly unsafe for our children, especially with other precautions also in place. 

There is no way to police the cleanliness of the masks that can go unwashed or unchanged for days or more at a time posing a greater health risk. Masks are distracting, especially for small children or those with disabilities or sensory issues. They are problematic for students in programs such as music and athletics. They are not able to work at their full potential with their faces covered. Prolonged mask usage can cause acne, enough so that there is a new term for the condition called "Maskne".  They can potentially contribute to breathing issues, headaches, vomiting and overheating, especially in the Texas heat. A child that is a bus rider or in an extra curricular activity could be faced with upwards of 10 hours per day of facial obstruction. 

If the remote learning is an option, those who are most at risk or make the choice to stay in masks or other protective coverings have an option. The majority should get to be heard. End the mask mandate. 

It has been understood that the TEA makes these decisions. The TEA states their role is "to help coordinate the flow of information from the state to the districts, help districts solve problems, and provide guidance that will aid in districts' decision-making. TEA does not have the general authority to close schools for matters related to health." Governor Abbott has also stated that this is a district decision.

 Please join us if you would like our district to remove the masks from our children.