Mask-optional policy at Hononegah extends to teachers and staff
A legislative panel blocked mask rules intended to apply to school districts.
First, a judge ended mask mandates at Hononegah Community High School, and students are strongly recommended but are not required to wear masks. Now, after a legislative panel suspended a renewed emergency rule from the Illinois Department of Public Health, school staff are not required to wear masks either. Superintendent Michael Dugan sent a email announcement today:
Hononegah Families:
Illinois legislators voted against an emergency rule to extend Illinois’ school mask mandate Tuesday Night after a judge issued a temporary restraining order on Gov. JB Pritzker’s Executive Order.
The Joint Committee on Administrative Rules (JCAR), a bipartisan legislative oversight committee, objected to the emergency rule filed Monday night by the Illinois Department of Public Health, which would have forced schools to enforce masks while the legal standing of Pritzker’s Executive Order is under appeal in appellate court.
In compliance with the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules Decision, beginning today, the use of universal masking is highly recommended for all Staff but is not required within the building.
Hononegah Community High School is fully committed to our students, faculty, and community.
If you have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding this issue or the impact it can have on Hononegah, please contact me directly.
Michael J. Dugan
Superintendent
