Cobb County schools to require face masks, school board member says

COBB COUNTY, Ga. — With just more than more than a month away, Cobb County schools is making a major announcement for students and staff.

According to school board member Charisse Davis, all students and staff will be required to wear face masks. Davis made the announcement on her Facebook page Tuesday night.

The district had previously announced masks would be strongly recommended but not required.

We’re going over the change and getting reaction from families, on Channel 2 Action News

[COUNTY-BY-COUNTY: Plans for returning to school this fall]

Davis said that exemptions will be granted as needed.

The 2020-21 school year begins Aug. 17 for the district.

Marietta City Schools, which is an independent school district, is also requiring face masks for all staff, students and visitors. Everyone will need to wear it in buildings and school buses. Exceptions will be made for medical reasons.

Marietta intends to start school on Aug. 4.

[RELATED: Gwinnett Schools push back start date, will require masks]

Teachers in Cobb County told Channel 2′s Chris Jose earlier this week that they are concerned about the district’s reopening plan.

The group labeled itself School ROCS, which stands for “reopen our classrooms safely.” They’re encouraging Cobb County families, teachers and staff to protest with them on July 16.

The group wants school leaders to rethink their reopening plans.

“We’re a multi-generational community. We have parents, grandparents, children in one household,” said school board member-elect Leroy “Tre” Hutchins. “If something is to happen in the school, it’s coming home and it’s coming home to everyone in the household.”

Students and parents will be notified of an updated timeline to make their decision, with details concerning the 2020-2021 school year, as soon as it becomes available, the district said.

Gwinnett school board member pushing for start after Labor Day Channel 2's Tony Thomas reports on the major change the school board member is proposing.

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