LOCAL EDUCATION NEWS — Governor Bill Lee’s Executive Order 84 on August 18 caused a bit of confusion but this week, Motlow State Community College in Moore County re-emphasized their intent to require face masks inside all buildings this fall.

On August 13, the College originally announced its plan to “requires all persons who enter a Motlow building to wear a facemask or face covering” and then following Governor Lee’s August 18 announcement the college changed their official language to “encourages” masking. On August 30, the U.S. Department of Education announced their intent to open a civil rights investigation in five state including Tennessee regarding the prohibition of universal indoor masking.

The following day, Motlow State Community College re-stated their indoor face masks policy for the fall.  This decision supports shared recommendations across the college community, they said in a press release.  

“All students, faculty, staff, and visitors are required to wear face masks while inside Motlow facilities. Social distancing is encouraged wherever possible,” the policy states.

“In a proactive effort, college representatives unanimously support the wearing of face masks to allow for the continuous on-ground presence of students, faculty, and staff in the safest environment possible,” said Motlow President Dr. Michael Torrence.  “To meet the varied needs and requests of our students, an on-ground presence is necessary; therefore, the mask requirement helps to keep the college open and ensures the safety of everyone.” 

Protocols are in place to support the mask requirement as well as the health, safety, and wellness of everyone on campus, including the availability of masks, hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, and personal protective equipment (PPE).  

To learn more about Motlow State’s Response to COVID-19 and the Return to Campus Plan, go to www.mscc.edu. •