Mishawaka schools now requiring masks in the classroom

ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, Ind. –Starting Monday, students and staff at all School city of Mishawaka will be required to wear a mask inside the buildings.

School officials reversed their mask policy Thursday and parents ABC57 spoke with said they’re glad that the school is putting safety first.

“That makes me feel happy for the kids especially, and also the staff and the teachers because they are on the front lines just as much as the kids are, and I think that people forget that. So, I’m sure that some people wont be happy, but you can’t please them all,” Alicia Roennow said.

School officials announced the change on Thursday, based off what the school said is concerning data.

Roennow, she said knowing that the schools are taking the right precautions puts her at ease as a parent.

“I think we need to do all we can to protect our children, especially those under 12 because they can’t get vaccinated,” Roennow said.

And as the delta variant continues to increase, St. Joseph Deputy Health Officer, Dr. Mark Fox said he’s glad to hear the school has taken the lead to ensure everyone at the schools is safe.

“Its really encouraging to see a school district was was initially committed to mask optional than pivot based on the data and to pivot in pretty short order,” Dr. Fox said.

Masks will continue to be optional outdoors.