We, the undersigned parents and supporters of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School, request that the face mask requirement be optional for the remainder of the 2021-2022 school year.

Attendees at other diocesan events, including Mass, on the Our Lady of Lourdes campus, are not required to wear masks. 

We acknowledge the health risks posed by COVID-19 over the past two years. However, recently published data by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services shows that the cases in our county continue to fall on a sharp downward trend. https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard

Studies compiled by the group PERK (Protection of the Educational Rights of Kids) show that the psychological harm of masks far outweighs the health protection of our children. Facial expressions are integral to human development, learning, social engagement, and connection. In the early years of development, our children learn to engage with others, signal fear, and develop other nonverbal communication skills with facial expressions. We as parents, families and caregivers must give them this option to ensure that they can develop into well-adjusted and well-balanced individuals.

We trust that parents, families, and caregivers can assess their risks considering physical, mental, and psychological risks and benefits related to all medical decisions, including masking.

Other Catholic diocese and faith communities across the country have allowed parents and caregivers to decide whether their children should wear a mask in school. We call upon the Diocese of Raleigh to do the same.

By signing this petition, we respectfully request that you make face coverings optional for all students, faculty, and staff at Our Lady of Lourdes School.