We, the parents of The Ashland School District, are united in declaring an end to unilateral guidance “requiring” our children to wear face coverings. Wide spread vaccination is in place in our community for high risk individuals, as well as effective mitigation strategies. This is evident in the very low number of active cases in our county. We are requesting our school board members to add a resolution, with the intent to vote, at the upcoming school board meeting on May 26th, 2021, making face coverings “optional” for children in our district. It is up to the parents to make decisions that best suit the needs of their children.  We have seen the consequences of this last year on our youth and recognize that intervention needs to be taken. Parents have the right to make medical decisions for their own kids.  The City of Ashland has ended the mask mandate as of 5/25/21. Teachers have been vaccinated if they chose to and can still opt to wear masks if they have concerns. Families have the right to make a choice.  Our kids deserve better.