A topic that has been on the minds of many during the COVID-19 pandemic is whether or not people should be mandated to wear a face covering while in large groups of people, including within school buildings.

During a special meeting of the Marshall School Board on Friday, August 20, the board considered arguments from both sides of the issue.

Director of Data Analysis Jim Papreck explained to the board he is in favor of a mask mandate. However, he knows it’s a hot-button issue.

Physical Education teacher and baseball coach Paul Alberson explained in a letter to the board why he is in favor of making face coverings optional. Superintendent Dr. Carol Maher read Alberson’s letter.

Board President Bryon Jacques also read a letter submitted by Zach Baker, who is in favor of a mandate.

At that point, board member Dr. Erin Meyer made a motion to make face coverings mandatory inside and outside MPS buildings. However, her motion was dismissed due to lack of support.

Board member Ellen Lance made a motion to make face coverings optional. The motion received a second and was approved by the board on a 4-2 vote.

In other news from the meeting, due to a mask mandate not being adopted, there was no need to take action on a COVID Leave resolution, as indicated in the resolution.

However, Dr. Maher wants patrons to know, the federal requirement of masks on all buses, for all student transportation, will be enforced.