(La Porte, IN) - Masks are now optional in the La Porte School Corporation.

Superintendent Mark Francesconi said the mandate imposed in the fall was lifted when COVID-19 requirements were loosened recently by the state and federal governments. Students also no longer have to wear masks in schools or on school buses.

“We see some masks still being worn by students and staff. That’s great. That’s their option, of course,” Francesconi said.

Francesconi said the school corporation is still keeping an eye on case numbers in the schools and throughout the county. According to state health officials, the seven-day positivity rate in La Porte County is just over five percent.

Several weeks ago, the positivity rate in La Porte County and throughout the state approached or exceeded 30-percent.