School Board acts in everyone’s best interest

     The Monticello School District Board of Education deserves kudos for the hard decisions they made the night of their Aug. 27 board meeting regarding “Return to Learn.”

     Just the discussion and vote alone concerning Return to Learn took a little over three hours; the board still had the remaining agenda items to discuss and approve.

     While a draft outline Return to Learn plan was previously prepared for the board to consider, they took comments from teachers, staff and parents before making a final decision. A true democratic process…

     Several people present, around 35 or so, voiced their concerns in wanting the school district to require face coverings inside the schools and classrooms (with some exceptions). This sentiment was shared by both parents and staff, some rather emotional about the matter, feeling quite strongly about everyone (students and teachers) wearing a mask.

     Some shared published statistics about the COVID-19 pandemic as reasons why face coverings are necessary.

     Others shared personal stories as to why, even if the district didn’t require masks, their kids would be wearing one regardless for various reasons.

     The school board took all of the information, personal sentiments, and strong feelings into account before making their final decision. That decision was a slight modification to the draft Return to Learn Plan, changing the face covering idea from a suggestion to a requirement.

     The school board also deserves a round of applause for not only listening to the community (those represented at the board meeting and those who electronically submitted their comments), but taking into account the strong feelings of their teachers and staff. Without dedicated teaching staff, the heart of the Monticello School District, our school wouldn’t be what it is today.

     These teachers and associates work hard and are so dedicated toward the lives of their students, the children of this community. Wanting to see face coverings a requirement is not just for their protection, health, and well being, but that of the students of all ages and the many families in the community (parents, grandparents, extended family, etc.).

     The Monticello School Board and School District put together the Return to Learn policy in the best interest of everyone associated with the schools and community. They heard from the public and acted in everyone’s best interest. Bravo! (K.N.B.)