Canfield Local Schools has released its safe return plans for the upcoming 2021-2022 school year.

According to the report, the school will remain at 100% capacity while practicing social distancing. 

Due to federal mandates, masks will be worn by all individuals riding school buses.

Masks will not be required in the classroom. However, this could change at any time depending on information from the state and/or local health departments. 

Lunches will be served to students in the cafeteria with limited seating. Students are asked to add funds to their PaySchools Central meal account to purchase items rather than spending cash.

The district will continue to practice added safety precautions, cleaning, disinfection, sanitizing, modified student lunch procedures, transportation practices, health and safety precautions, limited visitors and temperature screenings.

With about 50 parents showing up at Canfield's School Board meeting Wednesday, just one spoke up in favor of a mask mandate.

"Children's emotional needs, emotional development and educational development, especially when it comes to speech and reading comprehension," explained Chad Hawks, a Canfield parent to 21 News, "they need to be able to see mouths to develop these skills. No one takes that into consideration when they want children to wear a mask." Hawks was happy with the district's decision.

If a student or faculty member is exposed to someone who tests positive for COVID-19, they are permitted to remain in the classroom, as well as participate in athletics and extracurricular activities provided they are vaccinated or wearing a mask and show no symptoms. 

If a student or faculty member is exposed and is not fully vaccinated or wearing a mask, they must quarantine for 10 days and may return seven days after a negative test performed at least five days after exposure.

Parents are encouraged to monitor their children's temperatures and symptoms. If a student's temperature is over 100 degrees or the student is experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, they are asked to remain at home. 

Students should carry a water bottle rather than drink from water fountains and lockers and cubbies will be available for all students. 

The full report from Canfield Local Schools can be found here.