Miami Valley school districts invested thousands of dollars in face shields and now the state says they are not allowed to use them as a substitute for face masks.
Tim Hopkins, Brookville Local Schools superintendent said the district lost 40 to 45 students to online learning after Gov. Mike DeWine made the announcement Saturday.
“They just did not want to send their children to school with mask on,” Hopkins said.
His district had already spent $3,678 on about 1,700 face shields.
“We looked for an option that allowed us a safety device, something you know would protect against the transfer of COVID-19, but at the same time be comfortable,” Hopkins said.
He said he got the idea from Dayton Public Schools’ superintendent, Elizabeth Lolli.
>> DPS spends $28K on face shields not permitted under order, other districts spent thousands
DPS invested $28,000 in face shields.
In a statement to News Center 7′s Molly Koweek, Lolli expressed her frustration with changing messages from the state. She said in part, “Districts prepare based on information we receive trusting that the direction should be followed, so we followed it. Then it changes. Very frustrating.”
Lolli said her district will try to find alternative uses for the face shields. Hopkins said students with special needs, exempt from the state’s face mask order, will be allowed to use the face shields. He said the face shields are already assembled, so the district will not seek a refund.
Fairborn City Schools’ superintendent said his district spent $19,000 on face shields. Oakwood City School District’s spokesperson said the district spent $1,500 but will be able to return some for a refund. Bellbrook-Sugarcreek Local Schools’ superintendent said the district spent $500 in face shields.
Cox Media Group
