By Emma Conlon ’25
Recently, the state of Massachusetts has lifted the mask mandate, and Beverly has gone mask optional. Walking down the hallways of Beverly High School, it’s obvious that students and faculty have varying opinions on the decision to go maskless. I spoke to students at BHS to hear their opinions on the issue.
Kelly Flannery (‘25) says, “Even though there is an option to keep your mask on, there is a lot of peer pressure to do so.”
Isabella De Paula (‘25) says, “I’m surprised that the mask mandate was lifted this soon since February break just ended and spring break is right around the corner. Initially, I was more concerned that COVID cases would skyrocket, but I have come to realize that we have to get to some sort of normalcy eventually, even if we’re never truly ready.”
Kailey Quintino (‘24) says, “It is kind of strange seeing everyone without masks for the first time because we’ve been wearing masks for three years.”
Carly Jones (‘24) says, “I think that’s a good sign, but I’m still uncertain. I’m glad, but I’m still a little nervous, it’s a very complicated issue.”
Mme. Speolstra, BHS French teacher, says, “In terms of the lifting of the mask mandate, I am comfortable with others not wearing masks around me. However, for the time being, I am choosing to wear mine not only to help provide additional protection for myself against COVID, but also any other bug that goes around – like the flu, for example. In a week or two I may decide to stop wearing my mask, depending on how the numbers are looking for both COVID and the flu. I’d really rather not get sick if I can avoid it!”
I think it’s important to respect people’s decision to either continue to wear their mask or decide to take it off. Masks have become less of a safety protocol and more of a political statement, so I was surprised to see so many students still wearing them. As masks come off students and staff here at BHS, it feels like we’ve gained a sense of normalcy within a confusing time.
