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“My Kid, My Choice:” group of Avonworth parents rally against school mask mandate

OHIO TOWNSHIP — Some Avonworth parents say enough is enough. They feel face masks aren’t necessary and their kids shouldn’t be forced to wear one at school.

Parents from the Avonworth School District stood together. Their message— “My Kid, My Choice.”

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They rallied at the Ohio Township Community Park. They’re requesting the Avonworth School District IMMEDIATELY and FULLY revoke its policy that students MUST wear face masks in order to attend AND while attending school.

“We’re in America. So when you’re punishing children because they won’t wear a mask… or because they listen to their parents then that’s why we’re here to stand and we’re starting a movement,” explained Avonworth Parent Harry Wynkoop.

This also includes sporting events, concerts, school clubs and while on the bus.

“They’re not gonna send ‘em home. We’re prepared to take legal action,” Wynkoop said.

They argue this is a violation of civil liberties and they claim masks do little to nothing to protect a child’s health.

This all comes after the Avonworth School Board recommended universal masking for K-12 students and staff.

The board says this is the right choice because it keeps kids attending in person learning.

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Meantime, the American Academy of Pediatrics has supported universal masking for vaccinated and unvaccinated kids and adults in schools.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also recommends universal masking as kids under 12 are still not eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccine.

They say it’s the best layer of protection with uncertainty over the ongoing delta variant.

“Mask optional. I think everybody has the right to do what’s best for their children. The school board and the teachers union need to educate not indoctrinate,” Wynkoop said.

This group of Avonworth parents is currently circulating a petition encouraging more parents to sign on.

The district says if parents don’t agree with the mask policy their children can attend school online.