Let Our Children Breathe – Repeal the Mask Mandate for the Scottsdale Unified School District

The Scottsdale Unified School District sent out communications that "Beginning this Friday, August 20, 2021, face masks will once again be required for all SUSD students, teachers and staff when they are indoors on district property." We the parents strongly oppose this mandate, as it deprives us of our freedom of choice to exercise our parental responsibility.

Studies have shown that unacceptable carbon dioxide levels are reached after 3 minutes of wear. Our kids are in class for over 6 hours a day. Imagine how those high levels of carbon dioxide can impact their health long-term.

We the parents, as well as concerned citizens and advocates of young children call for NOT making medical masks / face coverings required at schools in the Scottsdale Unified School District. This should be a parents choice based on personal family beliefs and situations.

It's no secret that our childhood experiences have the power to influence our actions for years to come. These years are referred to as "the formative years" for a reason. During this critical developmental time, children learn how to practice focus, self-control, communications, and how to make lasting connections (just to name a few). We the parents believe that forcing our children to wear masks and cover their faces can impact their long-term development and social skills.

Governor Doug Ducey issued an executive order March 25 lifting all state COVID-19 restrictions on businesses and barring cities and counties from enforcing mask mandates. He stated, "Arizona does not allow mask mandates, vaccine mandates, vaccine passports or discrimination in schools based on who is or isn’t vaccinated. We’ve passed all of this into law, and it will not change."

This poses the question "Why is the Scottsdale Unified School District going against the governor's executive order?"

“...children may have issues with “emotional recognition and social interaction.” - Dr. Lee, professor of applied psychology and human development at the University of Toronto

“Masks are not a great thing for communication in young kids.” - Dr. Lewkowicz, senior scientist at the Haskins Laboratories and the Yale Child Study Center

“Parents and teachers may also want to ask children more often what they are feeling as well.” - Sarah Gaither, assistance professor of psychology & neuroscience at Duke.

We are advocating for our children in the Scottsdale Unified School District. They need us to speak up for them, as they're still learning how to speak up for themselves. I urge you to let our children to breathe freely by signing this petition.