Last December I wrote a story about the importance of mask wearing and COVID prevention measures in general. Even though a lot has changed these past months (a vaccine, loosening restrictions and a strengthening economy), COVID is still quite prevalent. You might think that COVID is a thing of the past, but that is hardly the case.

On August 16, CISD reported 459 new COVID cases. Last year, the highest day of reported cases was January 6 with 114 cases. This increase is concerning. For the sake of all CISD students, a mask mandate must be put in place.

The delta variant is ruthless. According to the CDC, the delta variant is twice as contagious as the original virus. Also, new variants are being discovered faster and faster than ever before. The mu variant has been starting to make headlines because of its potential to not work with the vaccine.

Many districts have decided to go against Texas law by implementing mask mandates in order to preserve the safety of their students. Houston, Spring, Dallas, and many, many others have made the leap.

Last month I spoke to the CISD School Board about the necessity for a mask mandate, and while I felt that the school board listened to me, they didn’t take action towards implementing a mask mandate. In general, I don’t think that the school board is prepared to make the masks mandatory out of fear of angering parents.

While I strongly hope that the board takes action, I think it is also important for all students and staff to take matters into their own hands. The virus isn’t going away anytime soon, especially with vaccine and mask misinformation. To combat this, I urge everyone to wear their masks, avoid large indoor gatherings and maintain good hygiene for the good of all people.

Tell the school board members that a mask mandate is needed, and in the meantime protect your friends, family, colleagues and classmates and wear a mask.