School board makes masks voluntary in Collier County schools

Collier County Public School Board opted for voluntary masks in Collier County schools beginning with summer school June 21 during its regular meeting Tuesday.

The school board changed the wording of the resolution, which was a hot topic during the public comment. The clause, “Transition to the voluntary wearing of mask,” is what parents wanted changed, and the board voted to removed those words.

More than 55 people signed up to speak during the meeting. The public comment was passionate and emotional for some.

For John Calverons and many other parents, the meeting is a deciding factor for his 9-year-old daughter.

“This all depends on if my daughter is going to go back to Collier County schools or if I am going to keep her at her charter school,” Calverons said.

We were told more than 750 people signed a petition calling for Superintendent Kamela Patten to step down.

Vaccinations were also a big topic during public comment. The board said there will be no “vaccine police” at the school district or in schools. It’s up to parents and guardians of students whether they are vaccinated.

The board also announced parent volunteers are allowed back into classrooms after June 21, and schools will be able to resume field trips.