Franklin Regional parents protest mask mandate

A group of about 45 parents protested the state’s mask mandate outside Franklin Regional high and middle schools Wednesday morning.

Many said they were looking to regain control of the decision from state officials, who announced last week that all schools and daycare centers must require masks for everyone while indoors regardless of vaccination status.

Parent Theresa Gutierrez said she has children in the elementary, middle and high schools and any who are not old enough to be vaccinated against the coronavirus wear a mask to school. But those who have been vaccinated should get to decide for themselves, she said.

“I believe that you should wear one if you’re not vaccinated or it’s your choice,” she said.

The group held signs and cheered when passing motorists and school buses honked.

A group of about 45 parents protest the state mask mandate outside Franklin Regional High School. @TribLIVE They’ve gotten honks and cheers from passing vehicles. pic.twitter.com/bMoEGwMzNl

— Renatta Signorini (@ByRenatta) September 8, 2021

The mandate took effect Tuesday. School board meetings in many districts sometimes became heated over the past month as parents either demanded universal masking or chaffed against mask mandates. Those against mandates said they preferred to keep masks optional, with parents deciding whether their children wear masks in schools.

Many school boards in the region implemented policies during the summer that left it up to an individual decision. Those actions were nullified by the state’s order.

“Our local officials know our community better than anyone,” said district parent Erin Lorenz of Murrysville.

She criticized state officials and the use of masks to prevent the spread of the virus in an impassioned speech to fellow protesters. The group marched from the high school entrance to the middle school.

Those in favor of mandates point to the surge in coronavirus cases caused by the delta variant and say masks will reduce the number of students and staff who would be forced to quarantine if new cases are confirmed in schools.

The governor’s order contains exemptions for students with medical conditions that make masks dangerous and while students are eating or participating in athletic activities.

District parent Dino Damico of Murrysville said the mandate is an overreach by state officials.

“This is a violation of our First Amendment rights,” he said. “This isn’t going to stand and it’s unfortunate we have to do this.”

Some parents said they were protesting in hopes that others who feel the same will join in.

“I believe this is the tip of the iceberg and I believe we need to stand up for our freedoms,” said parent Diane Lynch of Murrysville.