Masks will be optional at LISD schools for students and staff as of June 21, according to a May 10 email to parents.

“We certainly understand there continues to be a wide range of opinions on this topic, and masks will remain an option for all,” LISD Superintendent Kevin Rogers said in the email.

Rogers also said that, should COVID-19 numbers continue to improve, the school district intends to remove most Level Orange restrictions currently in place for the new school year.

Level Orange denotes “highest risk” and includes such restrictions as:

• wearing face coverings when social distancing is not possible;
• temperature screenings;
• limited gatherings of students in groups;
• enhanced cleaning procedures;
• closure of common areas; and
• grab-and-go meal options with reduced numbers of students in the cafeteria.

“I know one major question on the minds of students, families and staff members is what the start of next school year will look like,” Rogers said. “It is our intention to begin the 2021-22 school year in a much more traditional way, in what most would consider a ‘typical’ school environment.”

Whether that transition occurs will depend on improving case numbers and the advice of Denton County Public Health.

“The final decision regarding restrictions before school starts is completely dependent on the health-related circumstances in our communities in late July and early August,” Rogers said. “All of us certainly look forward to returning to a more typical school environment, but that can only happen if positive health trends continue.”