ELKHART, Ind. -- Just last Thursday, the Elkhart County health department recommended all schools reconsider their mask policies due to the rise in the delta variant. St. Joseph County Health department also making the plea to schools in the area.

Since then, several students can expect new protocols on Monday morning. All K through 6^th students at Goshen Community Schools will be required to wear masks indoors beginning August 23^rd.

The district explains due to the surge in COVID-19 cases in Elkhart County, the requirement is being put in place for the safety of the youngest students who cannot get vaccinated.

Health officials saying that Elkhart County is nearing the orange advisory level of COVID-19 cases. Still, masks are only required for those not at the age to receive the vaccine.

This includes all students, staff and visitors at Chamberlain, Chandler, Parkside, Model, Prairie View, Waterford, West Goshen and Goshen Intermediate Schools.

So far, no other public schools in Elkhart County have changed their mask optional policy. The School City of Mishawaka is also requiring masks for all grades starting Monday.