Brookfield Schools Seek Clarity From Lamont On Masks

BROOKFIELD, CT —The Board of Education and superintendent are looking for some rapid guidance on masking protocols from the governor.

In a letter to Gov. Ned Lamont, Superintendent John Barile and Board of Education Chair Rosa Fernandes ask for "guidance regarding the requirements of the wearing of masks in schools very quickly, and not let such decisions drag into the summer months."

Lamont has so far refrained from providing any new mask protocols to schools beyond just not requiring them for outdoor activities during the summer. Schools were among the very few locations still required to mask up when nearly all the state's coronavirus restrictions were lifted last month. Although pressed at numerous news conferences since then for some indication whether the mandate would carry into September, the governor has given up no clues.

The management and parents of the Brookfield Public Schools are asking that Lamont "follow the science," which they say indicates that children, especially younger children, are much less susceptible to COVID-19, particularly its more severe symptoms. The letter also cites the low level of coronavirus transmission in the community, and the high percentage of Brookfield residents who have been vaccinated against the infection.

Barile and Fernandes also warn the governor of a trend towards private and home-schooling as parents "deal with concerns for their child's well-being."

The letter makes the case that removal of the mask mandate would be better for "the emotional well-being of the children."

Ultimately the BOE chair and superintendent defer to the pending "State-level guidance" trusting it will "carefully balance the health risks" against the other factors.