S.C. Secretary of Education Molly Spearman’s decision to drop School Mask Mandates comes one day after S.C. Gov. Henry McMaster’s executive order giving parents the power to opt-out of face coverings for their children.
However, Spearman said in the press conference she expects most districts to continue following the DHEC recommendation to wear face coverings.
Spearman had strong criticism of Gov. McMaster and his executive order, saying he has “no legal grounds” to issue or enforce it.
In a statement to district superintendents Wednesday, Spearman said McMaster has “been successful in his mission of circumventing public health guidance by inciting hysteria and sowing division in the waning days of the school year.“
We highlighted the war between the two last night.
The Palmetto State Teachers Association said the Governor’s order has undermined its priority to provide students a safe learning environment over the last year especially.
“With his order, the Governor seeks to eliminate one of the primary safety protocols implemented during the pandemic,” the association said in a statement Wednesday. Instead of his claim to “empower parents,” they say he is removing the option of in-person learning for any family wanting to follow the recommendations of health authorities.
BEST OPTION
Parents can now fill out a DHEC form to “opt out” of any Face Mask Requirements. The form can be found here.
SAMPLE FORM
