Westada school district has the largest number of students in the state of Idaho. Since the start of Covid-19, the district has been indecisive and unorganized regarding their safety procedures. In order to protect their students and staff, an official mask requirement had been put in place from September 10th to November 29th. The board of trustees approved a motion on November 15th stating that masks would become completely optional, despite the new and very dangerous Omicron variant of Covid-19. Even students who choose to wear a mask are not protected. There are many teachers and students who remain unvaccinated and simultaneously make the decision to not wear a mask. This runs the risk of exposing every student and teacher to the virus, forcing them to miss school for long periods of time in order to quarantine. Pressure from the large conservative population in the district has caused Westada to disregard the safety and well-being of their students. Westada needs to hear the voices of those who wish to protect themselves and others. If dress code, behavior, and attendance can be enforced regularly, so can a mask requirement. Our students and teachers deserve to feel safe at school, and not be in fear of contracting the virus due to the choices of others. In order to make a change in our district, sign the petition and write our superintendent Derek Bub through the Westada website voicing your concerns.