Ending MA School Mask Mandate Premature: Worcester Parent

The following letter to the editor does not reflect the views of Worcester Patch

Bringing tens of thousands of rapid, at-home COVID tests to Massachusetts is a good start, but state officials once again seem to be lacking implementation plans to get these much-needed tests in the hands of the people who need them most. MassHealth's press releases, effectively dated Jan. 14, inform pharmacies and members that coverage now includes a standing order for at-home tests; however, information on this new proactive measure seems slow and confusing to pharmacies and members who could benefit. Meanwhile, the state's poorest communities, like where I live with my family in Worcester, continue to be disproportionately impacted by this pandemic.

Furthermore, I urge the state to step up efforts and immediately adopt the recommended CDC school guidelines. And, Ensure that students and teachers have adequate space/class sizes to allow for distancing, working ventilation systems are updated and effective and that the most recent recommendation for the use of high-quality face masks is accessible to all. Some other states have already begun N95 mass distribution; I see this as a shining example of health equity. And now, families face the possibility of a lifted school mask mandate, which the CDC has declared impulsive. The families and educators in the cities and towns have gone largely ignored in the state's pandemic response — again, the poorest communities with the highest infection rates.

Gov. Baker, I recognize that you are tasked simultaneously with balancing what is best holistically for our youth, communities, economy, and public health — complicated priorities. However, I have been disappointed that certain voices that should be crucial in the decision-making are not being duly heard — community stakeholders seemingly without privilege. I hope this is a sentiment I may release as the new efforts continue to unfold and that we may use the wisdom gained to guide us forward in good health truly, or shall I say, better public health.

—Alfee Westgroves, Worcester Public Schools parent and Massachusetts Jobs with Justice and Parents Union of Massachusetts (PUMA) member