A recent federal court decision has temporarily blocked the state’s ban on mask mandates in schools. In an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19, especially in those buildings where the number of positive cases is high, the Pella Community School District is modifying expectations of masks in school.

According to a district-wide email sent Thursday, the district will use a targeted approach on mask usage in schools:

– Masks are highly recommended in all school buildings.
– If a building reaches 10% student absence due to illness for two consecutive days, all students and staff in that building will be required to wear a mask for 10 school days.

– If a building is required to mask due to illness:
– All students in that building who ride a regular bus route to and from school will be required to wear masks on the bus for ten school days.

Pella Schools encourages family members to quarantine when there is a positive case in the home. If families choose not to quarantine, then they highly recommend student(s) wear masks while at school regardless of vaccination status.

Superintendent Greg Ebeling says the goal continues to focus on reducing the spread of the virus using protective measures available to them, while at the same time making an effort to respect individuals’ needs and choices.

As of Thursday, 4.8% of students missed class due to illness, and the district has had more than 40 positive COVID-19 cases for a week. Click here for the latest absence data.