PPE/MASKS

8.13.20 - PLEASE NOTE: The details on this page are subject to change as NISD receives guidance from state and local authorities or as conditions change.

For the safety of everyone, students, teachers, staff, and visitors must wear a face mask and practice social distancing where possible. These times could include entering and exiting the bus, walking during passing periods at school, before-school areas of congregation, etc.

• Masks are required for all students while on buses, in buildings, in hallways, classrooms, in common areas like restrooms, while entering and exiting the building, and when requested to do so by an adult.

Limited exceptions to this rule will be made for eating, drinking, therapy, or when participating in certain district approved activities per UIL and TEA guidelines.

• Appropriate masks include: disposable masks, washable masks, neck gaiters, etc.

• Face shields may be worn in addition to a mask, however they do not replace the requirement for a mask.

• Masks with exhalation valves or vents are not a CDC approved mask and are not acceptable.

• Being six feet apart does not negate the requirement to wear a mask.

• Slogans and images on masks must comply with the NISD dress code.

• If students don’t abide by the face mask requirement for In-Person Learning, they may be transitioned to Remote Learning. 

What happens if a student does not comply with the mask requirement? 

• If a student arrives at school without a mask, a warning will be issued and a mask provided.

• In order to provide a safe learning environment for all, if a student refuses to wear a mask correctly, the student will be removed from the classroom, a parent will be called to pick up the student, and the student will transition to remote learning.

Students will not be required to wear their face covering when: 

• Eating or drinking

• Participating in certain district-approved activities, per UIL and TEA guidelines

• Participating in P.E. activities that are both vigorous and provide a minimum of six feet separation between students. 

• Designated and monitored mask-free area during recess

• Designated and monitored class time outdoors

• Designated and monitored time in the hallway, not during passing periods

Medical exceptions:

If a student who receives SpEd or 504 services has a medical condition that prevents them from wearing a mask, the ARD/504 committee will review the medical documentation discussed with the doctor and other relative data, to determine if accommodations are appropriate.

Students who are currently not receiving SpEd or 504 services but have a medical condition that prevents them from wearing a mask, should contact their campus 504 Coordinator.

What other PPE will be used in the district?

•  Sneeze Guards and Plexi-glass will be added to public reception desks and point of sale registers in the cafeteria check out lines.

• The district will also provide each teacher with their own clear desktop divider. 

• Face shields are available for staff, however they do not replace the requirement for a mask.

• The Texas Education Agency recently announced that some PPE would be purchased and provided to each district for use as needed.