A San Antonio School District Defies Governor's Mask Mandates

SAN ANTONIO, TX –– During an hours-long school board meeting, the Northside Independent School District voted unanimously to implement a mask mandate ahead of the first day of class in defiance of Governor Abbott's executive order banning mask mandates.

Before approving the mask mandate, the school district strongly encouraged face coverings even as Governor Abbott's executive order prohibited any kind of mandate for face coverings.

The mandate was strongly supported by the Northside teachers association who fought for face coverings to be mandatory in order to protect their students and fellow teachers.

In the interest of student and staff health and safety, the Northside ISD Board of Trustees voted to implement a temporary facemask mandate for all students, staff, and visitors while indoors at district facilities and on school buses. This mandate goes into effect Monday, Aug. 23,"  said Northside ISD in a statement. "Trustees authorized the district’s superintendent to adjust this temporary mask mandate as appropriate given local health metrics and circumstances. The health and well-being of students and staff remains our priority."

More than 40 parents signed up to speak during the public comment section of the meeting. The influx of parents meant they only had one minute to speak.

According to local reporters, the parents were split on both sides of the issue.

“Masks are ineffective on preventing the spread of COVID-19, but provide negative social side effects," said parent Shay Hernandez. "I respect the choice of those who want to mask their children and they should respect my decision and my choice.”

I mask myself up as best as I can because I have in-laws who are cancer survivors and diabetics and suffer from respiratory issues," said Adela Castillo. "And my children that’s what brings my children joy is visiting their families I would hate to lose three people and be traumatized and suffer any issues down the road.”