What is the facial covering waiver policy?

Students with a medical reason for not wearing a mask are required to fill out our Facial Covering Waiver with a health provider’s signature. Per ODH, considerations will be made for the following medical conditions:

• Severe asthma or COPD, including those on oxygen
• Hearing aids
• Autism
• Post-traumatic stress disorder
• Panic attacks brought on by claustrophobia

The district will make accommodations for students who have approved medical waivers where possible.

What should individuals be looking for when purchasing or making a cloth face covering?

It is important to note that face masks do not replace or relieve the need to wash hands and social distance as much as possible.  

Face mask tips:

• should fit snugly and comfortably
• must be secured with ties or ear loops
• should comprise multiple fabric layers
• breathing should occur without restriction while wearing mask
• should be able to wash the face mask without causing damage or losing the face mask’s shape

Gaiters will not be considered an acceptable facial covering for school should a requirement be put into place.

On August 4, 2021, the Sycamore Board of Education approved the following resolution:

The Board authorizes the Superintendent to institute universal face-covering requirements by building, grade level, and/or the district for staff and students as needed. The Board directs the administration to finalize a recommendation for revision of policy EBEA - Use of Face Coverings to reflect the intent of this resolution and to develop guidelines for implementation.  The Board further affirms the continuation of the Superintendent’s authority to transition to and from remote learning at the building or district level.