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CANTON — Many Canton Area School District parents attended the recent school board meeting on Thursday, Sept. 9, to voice their opinions on the recent mask mandates.
The meeting began with Dr. Eric Briggs, Superintendent, discussing the recent mask mandate in his report. He noted that online learning caused great challenges for the students as well as stating that he, and the district, understand the frustration of parents, but he recommends following the order from the state and wearing masks to keep children in school and through sports.
“I now this decision made by the Department of Health has created division throughout many communities throughout our Commonwealth,” said Dr. Briggs, “this is not an issue that is new to the Canton community or Bradford County. The reality is this order has placed many of us in difficult situations regarding community.”
“Failure to adhere to the order could lose the protection against sovereignty and unity and we may personally face lawsuits from those who may be affected in any additional attempt to ignore the order,” said Dr. Briggs.
Dr. Briggs went on to note that qualifying students may be exempt from wearing a mask, following that parents send in applications for the “3b order.”
After accepting bills and resignations, the board heard from the public. Dr. Briggs noted that the school board was welcome to submit a resolution to Harrisburg stating that they will comply with the mandates, but were not in favor of them. No action was taken by the school board concerning that letter at the time of press.
Courtney Roberts, a teacher of CASD as well as the President of the Teacher’s Association, began the masking discussion from the teacher’s perspective.
“We support the administration and board members efforts to keep our students in person,” said Roberts, “because we believe that is the best way for our students to learn and grow socially and emotionally.”
Amanda Fitzwater, a school bus driver for the district, stated how difficult it was as a bus driver to wear a mask, not only for herself, but for students as well. She first noted that the mask makes her glasses fog up, which is dangerous for her driving. She then cited how difficult it is to see students while they are wearing them, stating that they could be doing things they are not allowed to on the bus, such as chewing gum.
Angie Hess, a parent, told board members that “there are lots of parents upset about the masking issue, including myself.” She urged board members that “I would like to remind each of you on the school board, sitting up there, that we voted you in to represent us. If you do not represent us, the people, we can change that.”
Another parent spoke about how his granddaughter struggles wearing the mask and now hates going to school, and how his grandson has medical issues.
One parent noted that his child actually stood up to him saying she was going to wear a mask in school to be able to see her friend, and reminded the public to “be the light” in these dark times of uncertainty and confusion.
Other news
There was an executive session held prior to the meeting to discuss legal matters.
The next Canton Area School District board of education meeting will be Thursday, Oct. 14, at 5 p.m. at the high school.