Florida School Boards and Mask Mandates: A Middle Finger to Political Theater

In the Tampa, Florida area, particularly in Hillsborough County, school boards are making waves by defying the leading voice in the state legislature, Governor Ron DeSantis, and requiring masks again in schools. This bold action is a very appropriate middle finger response to a leader who is often portrayed as a wannabe replacement for Trump. It underscores the power of fear as a driving force, often stronger than reason.

This decision is more about political theater than it is about public health. It is quite evident that the districts making these decisions are often populated by individuals who support the Democratic Party or are led by Democrats. Yet, the thrust of their actions does not align with the dispassionate analysis of the data.

Masks Don't Work, Protect Your Freedom

There are two undeniable facts that everyone needs to recognize. First, masks do not effectively prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus. In this regard, the Tampa-area school district is taking a stance that does not align with the scientific consensus. Second, if you wish to wear multiple masks, you can do so. Governor DeSantis is fighting against what he sees as the overreach of local bureaucrats who are imposing restrictive mandates without a solid basis in health or data.

I personally live in one county north of Tampa, in one of the many suburbs of Tampa's urban sprawl. If I had school-aged children, I would consider renting a small apartment in a different district. The local morons in my area have taken no action to prevent the spread of the virus, despite two teachers dying from the Delta variant last week, both of whom contracted it at school on the same day.

The Lack of Evidence for Mask Mandates

In terms of mask mandates for school children as a public health measure, there is a lack of definitive evidence that such mandates result in meaningful reductions in COVID-19 infections. In fact, data from the CDC conflicts with their own recommendations, showing no statistically significant reduction in infections when children are mandated to wear masks in schools. This can be seen here.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) also advises against masks for children under 12 and views them as a secondary measure to physical distancing. This recommendation is reflective of a pragmatic approach to public health issues, suggesting that masks have become a quasi-religious and political statement rather than a dispassionate analysis of the data.

Accountability and Legislative Overreach

The legislative mandate passed by the Florida legislature should be respected. It is concerning to see school districts ignoring this law, and these districts must be held accountable for their actions. While some places in Florida are taking steps to protect the health of children, it is disheartening to see that others are not.

In conclusion, the Tampa-area school districts have demonstrated a willingness to stand up for the health and well-being of children, as opposed to the more heavy-handed approach taken by Governor DeSantis. The continued push for mask mandates without empirical justification is not serving the public interest but rather creating unnecessary fear and division.