Redmond residents share mixed views on school board’s decision to make masks optional sooner

Some share relief, while others are conflicted: 'A balancing act'

(Update: comments from Redmond residents, Redmond School District PIO Sheila Miller)

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Redmond School Board has voted to make masks optional in schools, starting March 2. After a heated debate, followed by a 4-1 vote Wednesday night, parents soon will get to make the call on whether their kids need to wear masks on campus or not.

Coming nearly a month before the state-guided deadline which falls on March 31 to lift the mask mandate, the decision puts the school in violation of that mandate, apparently in its final weeks.

“By asking the district administrators and staff to essentially break state law, it puts us in a tough position and it also opens up some possible consequences," Redmond School District Public Information Officer Sheila Miller said Thursday. "So, we can see sanctions and fines levied against our district for failing to comply with health requirements. We could also potentially lose some state or federal funding."

School district administrators and staff are working on a plan to carry out the board's direction. In doing so, Miller said they intend to work with staff and leaders from the state to avoid violating state guidelines, if possible.

Some Redmond residents shared mixed feelings about masks being optional before the state guidelines change.

“I’m a little bit torn on it," Ronda Richards said. "We should care a little bit more about the safety, health-wise of our children. So, I mean, if it helps them to stay healthier wearing a mask, I think we should do that. But, it’s also America, so if you know, you don’t want your child to wear a mask, you should have that option as well. And I should be able to say, 'Yes I want my child to wear a mask.'"

One student transferring to Ridgeview High School said it's a tricky situation. 

“People, I think, should be able to choose whether or not they want to wear something. But, at the same time, it’s in the middle of a pandemic," Riley Herrin said. "If it can lower COVID cases, I think it’s a good precaution."

Chloe Stills homeschools both of her daughters, because she doesn't want them wearing masks.

“I am super-excited that the parents will get a choice on that," she said.

Another woman shared that having the option is helpful for student development.

“I really like it," Tambry Scunziano said. "I talked to a lot of friends that have kids, neighbors that have kids, and they just want the kids to be able to see each other's faces and have natural social interactions. That is as important as the academics.”

Miller points out the challenge in establishing a middle ground.

"There are certainly lots of families that are very eager to see their kids not have to wear masks any more. We respect that," she said. "We also respect that there are a lot of families who may have concerns about their students' health and safety. That’s something I think we really have to take into account as well. It’s really a balancing act.”