All masks aren’t equal

As schools began to reopen, the PA Department of Health required masks to be worn at all times to attend in-person learning.  

To help combat the spread of COVID-19, the district has purchased in total 30,000 masks according to Superintendent Dr. Cathy Keegan. Overall, the school has purchased 20,000 adult size masks and 10,000 child size masks, she added. 

High School Chemistry Teacher Mr. Jonathan Bixler, recently discussed the science behind wearing masks to educate students on how to protect themselves and others from COVID-19 while attending school. 

Mr. Bixler said he prepared a PowerPoint on masks for a college class he was taking; he now shares it with his students. 

“Masks act as a barrier to help prevent any type of respiratory droplets from traveling into the air,” he added. 

  Mr. Bixler said masks must be disposed of or washed “after a session of use.” To maximize mask effectiveness, “it is a good idea to wear it for a day then wash or grab another one,” he added. 

 Mr. Bixler said he researched what kind of masks are the most effective at preventing the spread of bacteria.  

“Any mask is better than no mask,” he said. “COVID-19 (virus) is very small and the more layers, the better.”  

The least effective masks are those with “one layer, gaiters or just a sheet of fabric,” Mr. Bixler said. 

“A face shield is for someone in close proximity of coronavirus, and is only one layer of protection,” he said. 

           Mr. Bixler added that he feels like students have been more compliant about wearing masks than he expected. 

 “We have the nosers. Otherwise we are good,” said Mr. Bixler.  

Senior Cara Kennedy and Freshman Ryan Bickhart shared their opinions on what mask types. 

“The cloth ones work the best based on the fact they are sturdy,” Cara said.  

“Disposable masks (are better) because they are easier to breathe out of,” Ryan added.  

Both students said gaiters are the worst. Ryan cited their lack of protection, and Cara said, “because they do not stay up.”