Teachers and Bus Drivers now have option to require students to wear mask in Stephens County Schools

The Stephens County School System has announced that any bus driver or teacher can require masks to be worn by students in their presence.

During the recent Stephens County Board of Education meeting, Dr. Daniel Oldham asked for the boards support to allow bus drivers and teachers, who have general concerns for their own safety to be allowed to require students to wear a mask while in their presence.

According to Oldham, many of the school systems teachers and bus drivers may have medical conditions that potentially puts them at a higher risk for COVID-19.

Oldham says that any student who has a medical condition that would prevent them from safely wearing a mask would be excused from this requirement.

He says any student who does not have a mask will be provided one.

Additionally, he explained that the school system is hoping this will allow the school system to remain open throughout the year.

At this time, there is not a general mask mandate across the district; however, by allowing teachers and bus drivers this option will allow the school system to provide a safe and productive learning environment for students and staff.