In this day and age, one would think that wearing masks in public gatherings would be a given. However, in Wall, NJ, some parents are refusing to wear masks during board meetings, causing the board of education to halt an important meeting.
The Wall Board of Education had scheduled a meeting for August 24th. However, due to parents refusing to wear masks, the meeting had to be rescheduled for August 31st, with the board opting to make it a virtual gathering. This decision was reached after a one-hour delay in the previously scheduled meeting.
It is understandable that some may find wearing masks uncomfortable, especially during extended periods. However, the current times call for it. Schools all around the country have been grappling with how to safely open up and keep both students and staff healthy. And while vaccines have been made available to most, the Delta variant has created a new wave of infections, leading to a surge in hospitalization and deaths.
It seems reasonable that parents should do whatever they can to protect their children's health, and wearing masks when gathered with other parents and board members should be a bare minimum act of consideration for others. After all, nobody wants to be the cause of a massive outbreak in the school community.
Wearing a mask is not only a personal protection measure, it also shows social responsibility towards others. This is especially true in public indoor spaces where the virus is shown to be most easily transmissible. It is essential to recognize that any measure implemented to prevent an outbreak in schools is not only for personal safety but for the safety of others as well.
Fortunately, the board of education in Wall, NJ has recognized the importance of masks in preventing the spread of COVID-19. However, not all local boards will be as considerate. It is important for parents to advocate for their children in cases when comfort is juxtaposed with safety.
The COVID-19 pandemic has shown us how imperative it is to support one another with simple acts like wearing masks. A dedicated adherence to protocols recommended by the CDC and other health agencies can tremendously impact the pandemic and save lives. It is hope that, in the case of the Wall, NJ school board, parents will realize that their actions have consequences both for the people around them and for the community at large.