Should Maryland Mask Up Again? Take Patch's Survey

MARYLAND — School is just around the corner, and districts are finalizing plans for COVID-19 policies and restrictions for when kids re-enter Marylandschool buildings.

The Centers for Disease Control has recommended that all students and staff in K-12 schools stay masked during the duration of the school day. Some school districts in Maryland have already mandated masks in their buildings, but there has not been a statewide mandate. Gov. Larry Hogan said it will be up to local jurisdictions and school boards to decide if and when to mandate masks.

The same is true for indoor settings such as retailers, restaurants, and concerts — some counties have reinstated indoor mask mandates due to rising COVID-19 case counts.

"While the pandemic is currently under control in Maryland, the unfortunate reality is that COVID and its variants are going to be with us in one form or another for the foreseeable future," Hogan said at a recent press conference. "We need to continue to adapt, to take the right precautions, and to look out for one another, which is exactly how we have gotten through this pandemic together so far."

What do you think about mask policies in public schools? What about vaccination requirements for students and staff? Will you wear a mask inside stores and restaurants? Do you think it should be required?

With the latest CDC guidance in mind, we want to survey readers on their thoughts about COVID-19 restrictions in public schools and indoor settings in Maryland. The survey will be open from Thursday, Aug. 19, through 9 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 23.

A results story will be shared after the survey closes. The survey is not meant to be a scientific poll, but it is only designed to give a broad idea of public sentiment.

Share your thoughts with Patch in our survey, embedded below. If you cannot see the survey, click here.

Here are some of the Maryland school districts that have already mandated mask wearing in school:

• 'Universal Masking' Required In Baltimore County Public Schools
• Masks Required For All HCPSS Students, Staff, Visitors This Fall
• Masks Required In MOCO Schools, Regardless Of Vaccination Status
• Masks Required For Prince George's Co. Public Schools This Fall
• AACPS Requires Masks For All Regardless Of Vaccination Status