Face mask obligation in secondary schools.

Face mask obligation in secondary schools.

From today, everyone aged 13 and older must wear a face mask in public spaces. In secondary education and special education, the obligation applies inside the school building for all students. For primary education and special primary education, face masks are not needed.

For schools that have included the face mask obligation in their policy, not much changes. The same rules will apply. For schools that had a face mask recommendation for students and staff, the obligation means wearing a face mask is now mandatory.

The current situation naturally raises many questions among parents. Below is a list of the most important questions and answers.

How long does the face mask obligation last?

This face mask obligation is set for at least 3 months. The government can extend this period.

What does the face mask obligation mean for students and teachers?

When students and staff move inside the school, they must wear a face mask. They can take it off when they have a fixed seat or standing place in school.

What (other) exceptions are there?

• The obligation does not apply to people who cannot wear a face mask because of a disability or illness, or those who can become seriously unsettled by it. The staff member or student who claims an exception must provide proof of the disability or illness if asked.
• Wearing a face mask is not required if it blocks participation or care in an educational activity. This can include activities like physical education, theater and dance, or certain vocational and practical courses.
• Teachers do not have to wear face masks when walking through the classroom; however, they must keep 1.5 meters distance from students at all times.

How can a student prove they qualify for the exception?

This can be done in different ways. The student can show their aid or medication. They can also show a note from a doctor, healthcare provider, or health organization, or proof of a recent appointment with a doctor. It only needs to be believable that your child cannot meet the obligation.

Am I required to show medical data of my child when claiming the exception?

You are not required to show this medical data. If you prefer not to show medical data, you must use another way to prove you qualify for the exception.

What should I do if the school does not agree that my child qualifies for the exceptions?

Make sure you keep talking with the school about this. Ask the school what information they need to approve the exception.

What happens if my child comes to school without a face mask?

If a student comes to school but refuses to wear a face mask (and not for medical reasons), the school must decide what happens next.

• The school sets the rules itself and decides on the sanctions. The school will ensure agreement with the school participation council when changing the health and safety policy.
• The school can choose to follow these steps:

1. Talk to the student and parent
2. Give a warning to the student
3. Suspend the student
4. If the student still refuses to wear a face mask after suspension, have a meeting with the attendance officer
5. The case is passed to the attendance officer

Does my child have the right to remote learning if they refuse to wear a face mask?

If your child is suspended, the school must ensure education continues. How the school does this is up to them. This does not have to be online learning.

What happens if I keep my child at home because I do not want them to wear a face mask?

In this case, the normal rules apply for when a student misses school without a valid reason:

• The school will first talk to the student and parent/caregiver about the absence. This can lead to an absence report.
• The school must report unauthorized absence to the attendance officer if absence lasts more than 16 hours in four weeks.
• The attendance officer will then work according to the Methodical Approach to School Absence and start an investigation.
• In this case, the decision not to come to school lies with the student.

Questions

If you have questions about the current situation, answers to frequently asked corona questions are in our FAQ. For personal advice, you can also call our advice point on weekdays at 088-6050101.