It's the first day of school for many in the region.
For students in Lac du Flambeau, Stevens Point and lower grade levels in Wisconsin Rapids, that means packing a face mask to go with their notebooks, pens and tablets.
Those districts are starting the year by making masks mandatory to help slow the spread of COVID-19, in accordance with advice from local and national health officials.
However, most schools in the area, including Tomahawk, Antigo, Rhinelander and Northland Pines are making masks optional.
Nearly all those districts are leaving the door open for changes if infection rates go up throughout the year.
