Franklin, Hart School Districts Not Requiring Students to Wear Masks in New School Year

As the number of COVID delta variant cases rises in Georgia, many schools, mainly in more metro areas, are changing their policies for the new school year and have re-instated the mask mandate for students.

The Franklin County Charter School system has posted on its website how schools will handle COVID-19 this year.

School Superintendent Chris Forrer said Tuesday they have not changed their policy on masks for students.

“We are strongly recommending students wear masks, but we are not requiring it,” he said Tuesday.

In the outline of procedures for dealing with COVID-19 much of what was in place last year will apply again this year.

All students and employees who are sick are required to stay home and any employee or student who becomes sick or exhibits symptoms at school or work will be immediately isolated and not allowed to remain at school.

All schools will have a room to isolate symptomatic individuals.

Enhanced cleaning and disinfecting will take place at all facilities and frequently touched surfaces within the school and on school buses will be cleaned and disinfected as needed.

Also, drinking fountains will be cleaned and sanitized regularly, but staff and students are encouraged to bring their own water to minimize touching.

Hand sanitizer will be available at stations throughout each school and on the school buses.

As for school visitors, non-essential visitors, volunteers, and activities involving external groups or organizations will be limited.

Forrer said the district will continue to work with local health and the Department of Public Health officials to ensure a safe and healthy environment for Franklin County students.

And a reminder for students age 12 and up, the COVID vaccine will be made available at the upcoming meningitis/Dtap vaccination clinics on August 4 at the middle school and high school.

In Hart County, for the 2021-2022 School Year, the Hart County Charter System is also leaving the wearing of masks for students optional so far.

However, at any time, based on CDC guidance, the Hart County Board of Education may issue a requirement to wear facial coverings.

Prior to such a decision, all stakeholders will be notified.

The Hart County Charter System will offer face-to-face instruction only and there will be no virtual learning option.

Hart County schools will continue to utilize enhanced mitigation measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.