Two Central Coast school districts keep mask requirements after expiration

SALINAS, Calif. (KION-TV)- Schools across the state are no longer required to have students wear masks indoors.

But two districts in Monterey County are still sticking with masking.

RELATED: Some Central Coast school districts sticking with mask mandate

The Alisal Union School District said by waiting two more weeks, would give the families, students, and staff time to adjust to the changing guidance.

“The Alisal Union School District has done an outstanding job in keeping staff and students safe during the pandemic by implementing strict COVID protocols such as masking, hand washing, desk shields, physical distancing, and air purification in all classrooms, offices, and cafeterias.

Masking remains one of the strongest measures to prevent the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19. The California Department of Public Health currently strongly recommends continuing to mask indoors in school settings. The CDPH also notes that local jurisdictions “may have additional requirements beyond the state requirements based on local conditions including community vaccine rates or vaccination rates in schools and childcare facilities.

An internal survey in Alisal USD reveals that only about 50 percent of its students are vaccinated. A recent poll demonstrates California voters strongly support the use of continued masking to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Alisal USD officials determined it would be prudent to keep a mask mandate for two weeks in order to give our community time to comment on and get used to the changing guidance. East Salinas was one of the communities in Monterey County – and in all of California – that experienced some of the highest rates of infection and positivity during the pandemic. The District wants to give time for staff, students and parents to express concerns and feel comfortable about the District’s next step moving forward.

Alisal USD is not alone. Other Districts such as North Monterey County Unified in Monterey County, Los Angeles Unified, and San Francisco Unified, will keep a mask mandate at least until April 4 and in some cases, even longer.”

Alisal USD sent the this statement to KION

Juan Cross's grandkids went to Monte Bella Elementary School last year. While they are now in middle school, Cross said his grandkids still wear masks.

“We educate them,” said Cross. “We tell them you have to take care of yourself and wear the
mask-like everyone else. It's a protection.”

Cross is in favor of the Alisal Union School District keeping its masking in place.

The district sent out a letter to families letting them know that masks will be required until April 4. In the letter, the district said this is being done with caution.

Meanwhile, the North Monterey County School District will keep masking in place until March 26.

The district believes the numbers will be lower by then, and it will allow planning for parents and teachers. But parents told KION, wearing a mask is still a choice.

“I think it's a personal choice,” said Karen Crowell. “Every family has different beliefs and
different ways of raising their children.”

Crowell said her son is in high school. but he still chooses to wear a mask. Crowell believes the decision should be made by the families.

For both the North Monterey County School District and Alisal Union School District, masking outdoors is no longer required but is recommended.