By Kathleen Kaufman
Duluth School District officials confirmed today that students will be in-person five days a week and mask wearing will continue to be required for students age 2 and older, ISD 709 employees and the public in all ISD 709 buildings as the school year begins.

The confirmation came as the district updates the ISD 709 Safe Learning Plan for the 2021-22 School Year.

“We want to do all that we can to provide safe, effective in-person learning as a district and as a community this school year,” said Superintendent John Magas. “During distance learning last year, fewer than 30% of students reported that they were comfortable with the learning model. I heard very strongly from our students, families and staff that our students need in-person instruction.”

Magas said mask wearing and vaccinations for those 12 years and older are tools that can help keep local COVID rates down and ensure in-person learning this school year.

Magas said the following organizations recommend mask wearing in schools:

. The Center for Disease Control

. The American Association of Pediatricians

. The Minnesota Department of Health

. The Minnesota Medical Association

. The Minnesota Academy of Family Physicians

. The Minnesota Chapter of the Association of Pediatricians

. The St. Louis County Department of Health

“In addition to mask wearing we strongly encourage people 12 years and older to get vaccinated,” said Magas. “Getting vaccinated is one of the best things we can do to reduce the impact of COVID on our schools and community.”

Updates to the Safe Learning Plan also include guidance for building use by the community, athletics & activities, cleaning and day-to-day operations.

Magas said the district will continue to work closely with the St. Louis County Department of Health, Minnesota Department of Health and Minnesota Department of Education to monitor local COVID rates and state and federal guidance.

“These safety protocols are subject to change as conditions and guidance changes,” said Magas.

Children under 2 years of age or people of any age who are unable to tolerate wearing a face covering because of a medical condition, mental health condition, or disability are not required to wear a face covering.