February 25, 2022

To Whom It May Concern:

Today, the Joint Committee on Administrative, Executive, and Legislative Review (AELR) announced they’ve
rescinded the statewide COVID-19 mask mandate in Maryland. Therefore, neither the Calvert County Board of
Education (BOE), nor Calvert County Public School (CCPS) staff have the authority to enforce a local mask
mandate in CCPS school buildings.

Indoor mask requirements in the early stage of the pandemic were crucial while we understood the science
surrounding COVID-19. The data has become clear – children should no longer be required to wear masks in
schools. I believe many children face issues with mask-wearing because it can impair non-verbal communication
cues, which can create learning delays. I believe in parental choice and that it’s important for parents to have a
voice in this matter. Parents should have the right to choose whether their child wears a mask in school unless,
and until, the BOE follows its adopted procedures to implement a formal policy on the subject.

As with all decisions, there will be individuals who support wearing masks in school and those who do not. I
understand and empathize with both opinions and continue to put the safety or our students and citizens at the
forefront of any decision made.

Sincerely,

______________________________
Kelly D. McConkey

Maryland Relay for Impaired Hearing or Speech: 1-800-735-2258