Goshen Community Schools is requiring masks for all staff and visitors at the district’s K-6 schools.
The move is in accordance with pandemic guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and the Elkhart County Health Department.
In a letter to parents Wednesday, Superintendent Steve Hopen said the mask requirement is meant to protect the district’s “most vulnerable students who are not yet able to be vaccinated.” Currently, only those age 12 and older are eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine.
Hope added that by requiring masks now, school officials hope they can avoid “more stringent measures of mitigation” down the road.
The new mask guidance is set to take effect Aug. 12, but all GCS schools are currently closed due to power outages across the city.
(Read the full letter to parents below.)
Goshen Community Schools (GCS) continues to monitor guidance from the CDC and the Elkhart County Health Department. GCS will now mandate masks for staff members and visitors in K-6 schools (elementary and GIS buildings), to protect our most vulnerable students who are not yet able to be vaccinated. We hope that by masking, this will prevent more stringent measures of mitigation. This mandate will take effect on Thursday, August 12, 2021. Adults who do not normally work in or visit a K-6 building, should be prepared to wear a mask at the K-6 schools.
In accordance with CDC guidelines, GCS strongly recommends and encourages all students and staff to wear masks for the health and safety of those around them, regardless of vaccination status.
Due to the changing nature of the pandemic and the recommendations from local, state, and federal entities, GCS recommendations may also change rapidly. We will keep you informed and make decisions based on the health and safety of our students and staff.
If you have any questions, I would invite you to call our Administration Center at 574-533-8631.
Dr. Steven Hope
GCS Superintendent
