Hot Off The Lunch Benches: What are your thoughts on the new mask mandate?

Malia Kabwe, Staff Writer

Since Monday, March 14, masks have no longer been required indoors for both vaccinated and unvaccinated students. Superintendent Dr. Drati explained in a message that the mandate was changed to align with LA county’s new mask guideline which strongly recommends (rather than requires) the wearing of masks indoors to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Most Samo students are conflicted about the recent change. Some are ready to leave masks behind; others are still wary of COVID-19 or are scared of people knowing what they look like. Samo students shared their thoughts on whether or not they will keep their masks on.

“For now, we should stay masked because COVID-19 is still spreading and we need to be safe for the people around us.”  

-Natalie Villanueva (’23) 

“I prefer to keep my mask on so other people are more comfortable. But, if people don’t want to stay masked anymore that’s their decision.”  

-Story Waxman (’22)

“I’ll wear a mask if we’re inside and someone is asking me to, but if we’re outside I just won’t because it’s outside.” 

-Dean Walker (’22)

“I think that we should still have a mask mandate because previously the county has tried to take away masks and we just ended up using them again. Since spring break is coming up, there will probably be a surge of cases.” 

-Wongiel Gebeyehu (’23)

“I personally am going to stay masked, my mom is in the medical field and works with people at risk so I don’t want to take anything home. I am happy things are getting better I guess but I still think it’s a bit too early to go unmasked.” 

-Kara Best (’24)