Moorhead Schools Will Recommend, Not Mandate, Masks for Upcoming School Year

(Moorhead, MN) -- By one vote, the Moorhead Area Public Schools decided to recommend, not mandate, masks in schools this upcoming school year.

The Moorhead School Board approved the 2021-22 Safe Return to In-Person Learning Plan for Moorhead Area Public Schools at a special board meeting on Wednesday. The plan has been developed by Moorhead Area Public Schools administration based on input from staff and families, guidance from the Minnesota Department of Education and the Minnesota Department of Health and local COVID data. 

All Moorhead Area Public Schools students in grades E-12 will return to in-person learning five days a week with a normal school day and class schedule. A limited online learning experience will be offered based on projected demand and instructional budget parameters. 

In accordance with state guidance, masks will be recommended, but not required while indoors at schools. Face coverings will be required on student transportation in accordance with federal mass transit mandates. The district will be conducting contact tracing and quarantines when necessary to continue to keep learning spaces safe. Vaccinated individuals will not need to quarantine in most instances.   

The safe learning plan also addresses areas like social distancing, facility cleaning, personal hygiene and ventilation to ensure a safe educational environment.

“We are excited to welcome our students back to the classrooms and are committed to the health and safety of our Spud staff and students. We remain grateful for the support and partnership of our staff, families and community as we make these complex plans to provide safe educational environments where our students can thrive,” said Superintendent Dr. Brandon Lunak.

Regular student meals will continue to be provided during the 2021-22 school year at no charge with funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.