Requests BESE and public school governing authorities to adopt policies making face coverings optional for students.
Impact
If implemented, SCR65 would influence school health policies significantly by allowing local school districts to decide whether or not face coverings are required in their schools. This could lead to a range of practices across different districts, potentially impacting students' experiences during the pandemic. Given the health context, the resolution may lead to varied public health outcomes depending on how individual school authorities choose to interpret and implement these recommendations.
Summary
SCR65 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution that urges the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) and the governing authorities of public elementary and secondary schools to adopt policies making face coverings optional for students. The resolution is rooted in the belief that children are less likely to contract or spread COVID-19 compared to adults, and it references updated guidance from health authorities that have eased mask requirements for vaccinated individuals.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SCR65 appears to be mixed, reflecting a broader national dialogue on mask mandates and public health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. Supporters of the resolution often argue that making masks optional respects personal freedoms and acknowledges the evolving understanding of COVID-19 transmission among children. Conversely, there are concerns from opponents about the potential health risks posed by allowing children to go without masks, particularly in areas with lower vaccination rates amongst the adult population.
Contention
The primary points of contention related to SCR65 stem from the balance between personal choice and public health measures. Advocates for the resolution believe it empowers families to make decisions regarding face coverings for their children, while critics argue that it may create environments that could jeopardize the health of students and staff. The resolution encapsulates the ongoing debate over health regulations in educational settings, particularly in the context of a pandemic and the varying interpretations of public health guidance.
Requests the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education to require public school governing authorities to adopt policies to address sexual abuse by children in schools
Requests governing authorities of public schools and all nonpublic schools that participate in the voucher program to adopt policies with regard to student fees
Requests BESE to require public school governing authorities to provide instruction on safe and appropriate Internet use and develop a model Acceptable Use Policy for use in the public schools.
Requests BESE to make accessible to athletic directors and coaches a training program covering important safety information for the prevention and treatment of injuries in student athletes.
Requests the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to require public school governing authorities to post certain fiscal information online
Requests BESE to adopt adjustments to the MFP formula to ensure that school districts impacted by Hurricane Laura do not lose funding during the 2020-2021 fiscal year due to decreases in student enrollment.