A first step in returning to “normal” at the end of the present school year was taken by the Northland Pines school board last week with approval to remove face coverings in all Pines buildings and grounds beginning Monday, June 7 but with some notable exceptions.
The need for face coverings, or not needed, will be discussed in detail with the Vilas County Health Department after school is out to determine the direction the district should take for summer school and next fall but it was stated “it’s time to move forward and removing masks would be the first step.”
A motion by Jennifer Payne to make masks optional starting Monday, June 14, was defeated on a 4-3 vote. Board president David Weber they moved to “approve face coverings optional in all Pines buildings and properties beginning Monday June 7, 2021, but still require face covering for Prom and Prom decorating June 10 and 11, on buses and under WIAA requirements for strudel athletes for the remainder o the 2021 spring sports season.” That motion was adopted on a 6-1vote.
District administrator Scott Foster indicated Prom will be the last event where masks will be required.
In other action the board approved relocating the Connect Learning Center program to Pines facilities and to put the property at 215 E Division Street up for sale.
Approved the bid of Pitlik & Wick to mill and resurface the Eagle River Elementary school parking lot for $68,180.
Finally, Foster indicated the meal program for 0-18 year old’s will be offered on Monday’s with boxes having a two week supply. He emphasized the kids do not have to be attending Pines for this program.
Contact the Pines district office for more information.
