The mask mandate was lifted for Graves County Schools beginning November 16th after going 14 days with incidence rates below 20 cases per 100,000.

While masks are optional indoors, they will be required on school buses due to the federal mandate.

Graves County will continue to monitor positive cases in our community to inform further decisions.

Many students are happy with the decision as they have had to wear masks in the building since March 2020. They feel that it allows them to connect more with peers and teachers, as well as have a cosmetic benefit: less acne.

“Masks caused my face to become more oily throughout the day and caused the bottom of my face to break out more,” said one student.

However, many are skeptical the mask mandate won’t return soon.

“I believe between Thanksgiving and Christmas masks will reappear in the district,” expressed one teacher. “Since all the kids are traveling for the holidays, and the changing weather.”

Please note the GC Health Department now offers the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5 to 11. Walk-ins are accepted, and appointments can be made by calling 270-247-3553.