(La Porte, IN) - Some parents are hoping a new mask mandate for schools in La Porte is quickly reversed.

 

If not, a protest is planned for 7 AM on Thursday outside the school administration building. Spencer England, an organizer of the rally, said he has signatures from more than 300 parents opposed to the mandate.

 

England said just a small percentage of infected children develop major symptoms, and many other kids don’t show signs of infection.

 

England believes that life must go on and children not “muzzled” for a virus he believes is impossible to keep out entirely. Contrary to data and testimony from scientists, medical experts, and local public health officials, England does not think masks are effective. 

 

England said he would try and approach school officials on Wednesday about possibly reversing the mandate. If not reversed, England will lead the protest outside the old Boston Middle School, where the superintendent and other administrators are now located.

 

La Porte School Board member Jim Arnold said the protesters have a right to express their feelings peacefully. However, Arnold voiced support for the mandate and felt it should be given time to see if it reduces cases and fewer kids having to be quarantined at home.

 

“I see no reason at this point in time to move back from it,” Arnold said about the recently approved mask mandate. 

 

Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb recently incentivizes schools to impose mask mandates by allowing districts to curtail their quarantine procedures. If schools institute mask mandates, they no longer will need to keep as many kids in quarantine which education experts suggest impedes finding a vital rhythm for children's education needs.