Masks Now Optional In Elmbrook Schools: District

BROOKFIELD, WI — Face coverings have been moved from required to recommended for all students, staff and all other persons on all School District of Elmbrook properties.

The school district said it used the Waukesha County COVID Dashboard and its own COVID dashboard to make its decision.

"The combination of seasonality, cumulative past infections and vaccination are all potential factors in the reduction of COVID cases in our community," superintendent Mark Hansen said in an email to parents yesterday. "As we look at our policy which states face masks are to be worn to combat uncontrolled spread, the disease spread appears to be in control."

Face coverings are strongly encouraged for individuals who aren't vaccinated.

There are still two exceptions to where masks will be required:

• Athletics — Elmbrook student athletes and teachers are expected to follow host school expectations and Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association expectations when travelling
• Transportation — Face coverings must be worn on buses per federal regulations

"We will continue to ask families to report symptoms of illness when calling in your child's absence to school," Hansen said. Families with children who have COVID-19 symptoms will still be asked to quarantine for 10 days or provide a negative test before returning to school.

Concerned parents are advised to work with their school principal and classroom teacher if they prefer to have their child take classes through Zoom, according to the email.