HUMBOLDT — As soon as Humboldt’s board of education adopted a new face mask policy Monday night, most in attendance immediately discarded their masks, despite the cramped quarters of the board office.
The change to a “recommended” policy comes after Gov. Laura Kelly’s statewide mask mandate was overturned by Republican legislators at the end of March.
Exact language from superintendent Kay Lewis’ memo to the district reads:
“Beginning on Tuesday, April 13, our district will follow our school reopening plan as established, but without the executive order statement [from Kansas Senate Bill 40]. Essentially, mask wearing will be recommended throughout the district at all times.”
“Recommended,” not required.
Even though the mask mandate is no longer in effect throughout the district, quarantine procedures are still in place.
The memo continues: “Unfortunately, students not wearing a mask could be placed into quarantine if they are considered a close contact of a COVID-positive person.”
All additional virus-fighting measures such as social distancing and frequent hand washing will remain in place.
In other news, you can mark your calendars for graduation.
Humboldt High School’s event is scheduled for 5 p.m. on May 8 at the sports complex.
An event for students attending virtually will be at 3 p.m. on May 9.
This year’s awards banquet is scheduled for 6:30 on April 28 at the field house.
Additionally, the board took no action regarding how to organize counseling jobs at the middle and high schools.
The proposition under consideration advocates to have two positions: a 6-12 counselor and a 6-12 career and technical education coordinator.
Board member Josh Wrestler shared information about the high school’s new trapshooting team. He said that 39 students were participating this spring, and added that they will soon be competing at the state level.
Wrestler also noted that students had done a phenomenal job selling raffle tickets, which will enable them to buy their own shotgun shells and other supplies.
Representatives from DCS/LST Engineering were on hand to talk about forthcoming improvements to the high school’s heating and air conditioning system.
