State distributing 2.5 million free face masks to public schools

Posted on August 14, 2020
The free face masks are being distributed by the Illinois State Board of Education and Illinois Emergency Management Agency. (Photo Pixabay)

 

By Neil Doyle

SPRINGFIELD – The state is distributing 2.5 million free cloth face coverings to public schools across Illinois.

The Illinois State Board of Education and Illinois Emergency Management Agency have shipped 2.3 million to schools to date. ISBE and IEMA also are distributing face shields that school personnel and students may wear in addition to the cloth masks for increased protection.

“Medical experts have determined that wearing face coverings is essential to safely reopen our schools for in-person instruction,” said State Superintendent of Education Dr. Carmen I. Ayala.

Public schools may request additional PPE following the process outlined here.

Locally, Unit 5 and District 87 will start the school year learning remotely. Both districts will reevaluate the plan in early October.

Neil Doyle can be reached at [email protected]

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