No mask mandate again at H-W

CRESCO - After Gov. Kim Reynolds issued new guidelines for COVID and masking, the Howard-Winneshiek CSD again went for a no mask mandate at a special meeting on Oct. 5.

The guidelines issued by the State of Iowa basically declare that if two individuals are wearing masks properly and one has tested positive for COVID-19, the virus should be contained and the second person does not need to quarantine.

Several teachers and parents asked the board to mandate mask-wearing to ensure the school will stay open. A couple of parents spoke against wearing masks, saying it is up to the parents to make that decision.

Parent and Dr. Jon Kammerer of Regional Health Services gave three reasons to scientifically wear masks — they have been tested, time has shown those wearing masks are better protected than those not wearing, and wearing masks has worked in other places around the world.

The board asked many questions of different healthcare individuals, including Howard County Director of Public Health Audrey Nosbisch.

There was one motion made, by Shirley Sovereign. She motioned to give the decision of when and how long to mandate a mask to Supt. Ted Ihns and the other administrators, since they are the trained professionals and see the students on a daily basis. It was seconded by Duane Bodermann.

The vote ended with Sovereign and Bodermann voting aye, and Toni Johnson, Andy Ludeking and Alison Holten voting nay. 

There were no other motions, and the meeting adjourned.