FROM PAGE 1 face coverings at Stanley-Boyd. “We are mask optional, except on buses.” The requirement for masks on buses has to do with a federal rule for mass transit, and is currently in force through September.

At the same time, masks weren't the only

thing to know for school beginning this August 19.

“Starting in August provides us an opportunity to be done in May,” Koenig said in explanation of the early start date compared with neighbors. “Students learn better in August than they do in June.”

Regarding sports attendance this fall, Koe- nig said there is no official policy. And

although the school district works closely

with Chippewa County it doesn't always

follows their suggestions, he said.

“Last year they recommended there should be no in-person instruction in December,” Koenig said. “We stayed open and did not change anything.” One of the reasons among others why staying open can be important, relates to nutrition.

School meals are the only meal some kids

get in the district-so what's the story

there?

“Stanley-Boyd School District is participating in the USDA Seamless Summer Option (SSO) for the entirety of the 202122 school year,” the webstie says under food service. “This means that our school is providing free meals to all students!”

Free and reduced lunch applications are still available at the school website “so families may qualify for P-EBT benefits

as well as other school funding,” the site says. Forms are accessible under the “Par-

ents/Students' tab by scrolling to "Food

Service.” Meanwhile, back to masks.

Earlier this year, a group of parents against the use of masks and a student for them both spoke to the board, with little of note happening in between as to regular board meeting discussion.

“Yes there is the vaccine but not everyone believes in the vaccine,” pro-face covering student Kaylee Lewallen said in her spring appearance before the board. A parent present at the same meeting who spoke during public comment mentioned possible “psychological issues” from face coverings, given that body language is important to understanding others. Another asked if the board would at least consider revising the district policy. So is there a way outside regular meetings to have one's voice heard? As it turns out, there is.

“Board conversations are meetings where the board discusses a topic in-depth but does not make a decision,” Koenig said. “Frequently at these meetings, parliamentary rules are relaxed so everyone in attendance may be part of the conversation.” Board conversations are generally held the Monday before the regular monthly board meeting, at the high school.

Just down the hall from the high school main office, returning and new high school students will be greeted by these murals from the Class of 2020, a new addition to a long tradition. Two photo composite by Joseph Back.