The current OSD "Return to Learn" plan explains that masks will be optional for all students. Such a policy would run counter to new guidance from both the American Academy of Pediatrics (which recommends that "all children older than 2" wear masks in school) and the Mississippi Department of Health.

We are asking Superintendent Roberson and the OSD Board of Trustees to amend the proposed policy and *require* all children under the age of 12 to wear masks while indoors. 

Because these children cannot yet be vaccinated, they remain one of the most vulnerable populations with respect to the extremely virulent Delta variant that is now sweeping through our state. Cases among this population are skyrocketing nationally, and a mask requirement is one of the best defenses against the variant.

We ask Superintendent Roberson and the Board to follow the science here and to keep our children safe.

There is a Board meeting on Monday, 7/26, to discuss the "Return to Learn" plan. Please sign this petition to make your feelings known about this important issue.