While masking is still a choice, the Haywood County Schools’ Board of Education, Haywood County Health and Human Services and Haywood County Schools’ Administration strongly recommend the use of masks in indoor school settings at this time. Masking is also recommended at outdoor events if social distancing is not possible.

On Tuesday, July 27, 2021 the Haywood County Schools Board of Education voted to make mask wearing optional for all personnel, students and visitors to schools and facilities. This followed a summer of low COVID-19 cases in Haywood County. Since the Board’s action, COVID-19 cases have significantly increased with several clusters developing in the county. One cluster was connected to the school system’s Maintenance Department.

“There have been several conversations between Board of Education members, Haywood County Schools Administration and Haywood County Health and Human Services Officials,” said Dr. Bill Nolte, Superintendent. “We want to have in-person learning this year. In-person learning is clearly the best learning situation for most students. We are concerned the increasing and rapid spread of COVID-19 coupled with low mask wearing rates could result in uncontrolled spread at school, numerous quarantines and an inability to have in-person school.”

While masking is still a choice, the Haywood County Schools’ Board of Education, Haywood County Health and Human Services and Haywood County Schools’ Administration strongly recommend the use of masks in indoor school settings at this time. We want to have in-person school in a safe manner that prevents the uncontrolled spread of COVID-19 on campus and limits the number of quarantines. The Board of Education reserves the right to make masking mandatory if necessary.

“If you are comfortable wearing a mask, I hope you will consider doing so.” said Dr. Bill Nolte. “This might help us stay in in-person learning.”

Contact: Dr. Bill Nolte, Superintendent