PIERRE, S.D. (KCCR) – The Pierre School Board last week approved a plan to allow T-F Riggs High School to use a hybrid school day mode that alternates in-school attendance with on-line virtual learning.  Like many places in South Dakota the use of face coverings and masks has been highly encouraged, but not mandated. District officials estimate mask use at the start of the school year was around 50-percent, but has dropped significantly.

Superintendent Dr. Kelly Glodt thinks mask use is getting lax.

Riggs Principal Kevin Mutchelknaus is in favor of a mask mandate.

Board member Joan Adam says the mask use at Riggs is disappointing.

Board President Dan Cronin says he was also disappointed at the mask use by students. Board member Dennis James says would like to see mask use a requirement. Ironically despite support for a mask mandate none of the Pierre School Board members or Administration staff advocating for mask use were wearing masks during last week’s meeting. The Board took no action on a mask mandate but may consider it at a future meeting.