Students and staff will be starting the 2021-2022 school year wearing masks just as they did last year. Principal Scott Moore feels that the mask mandate is key to remaining safe in the school building.

“I think we all wish we could move past the requirement to wear masks,” Mr. Moore said in an email. “However, it is important that we follow the health department guidelines to best protect ourselves and those around us.” 

On Aug. 9, 2021 Jackson county reinstated their mask mandate for all people ages five and up no matter vaccination status. Senior Annabella Gilmore believes the mandate will continue to be beneficial to the school. 

“I think it is a good idea because it feels safer,” Gilmore said in a snapchat message. “We wore masks all last year so it hopefully won’t change the school year too much.” 

Following Jackson county’s executive order Fort Osage decided to reinstate their safety protocols from last school year so students will continue to wear their masks during school hours. Senior Olivia Seifker thinks that the mandate will have a good effect on the school year.

“I think it will actually help the school year since restrictions are looser,” Siefker said via snapchat. “It will help students and staff feel closer again and it will make it more normal, such as having everyone back at school everyday, normal class sizes, and activities are still a go.” 

The mask mandate will be effective for 30 days and then the Jackson County legislators will decide whether or not they will extend or end the executive order.