Round Rock schools are set to start the 2021-2022 year on Wednesday, when Central Texas is awash is COVID-19 cases. Governor Abbott has made mask mandates illegal in Texas, in spite of knowing that masking is one of our essential tools to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. 

Most of our elementary school-aged children are not old enough to be vaccinated against COVID-19. Masks, social distancing and the vaccination of adults around them are all recommended by the CDC and American Association of Pediatrics to help protect children from falling ill. Gov. Abbott's anti-mask mandate removes this important public health tool to keep our children healthy. 

Several large school districts (Austin, Dallas, etc.) in Texas have already taken a courageous step and defied Gov. Abbott's order, requiring masks in schools. 

By signing this petition, we are encouraging Round Rock ISD to follow suit and place the safety and health of children FIRST. We trust these individuals with the safety of our children every day.  We need them now  (more than ever!) to step forward as experts in education, children, and protecting children from harm. Help us communicate loudly and clearly that our children's health should not be compromised by the Governor's stance on masks.