Masks became optional in Loudoun County Public Schools on Feb. 22, 2022; however, three parents who wanted the mask mandate removed immediately filed an injunction to have it removed early, which was  recognized by a judge. This sudden change was brought upon as a result of Governor Glenn Youngkin’s decision to sign Senate Bill 739 which grants parents the authority to decide whether or not their child has to abide by the mandate.

With the pandemic and mask-wearing being a consistent part of our lives for over two years now, people have formed their own opinions on mask-wearing in schools. The students at Independence are no exception. 

All students interviewed wish to remain anonymous. When asked to explain how they feel about masks, a majority of them shared how they are simply more comfortable wearing a mask now and will continue to wear one for the protection of themselves and others. 

“Covid-19 has taken away so many lives and because wearing a mask has become such a normal thing for me, I don’t plan on taking it off and posing any potential risk,” shared a student. 

Other students explained how, “If you are vaccinated and also have the booster vaccine, I feel like people shouldn’t be judged at all for taking off their mask and should do whatever they feel more comfortable doing.” 

A smaller portion of students shared a strong stance that masks shouldn’t be worn at all. Students and teachers at Independence have been mindful and given full respect to everyone as they make their own choice moving forward. It will be an interesting experience to observe how long it takes to slowly adjust to an environment with no masks, if Covid-19’s morbidity drastically eradicates.