School Implements Oxymoron with Mandate Opt-Out

A result of leaders failing to lead

“The West Ada Board of Trustees on Tuesday approved a new policy mandating masks for students and staff when they return to the classroom this week.” — Idaho Statesman, August 25, 2021

When I read this quote in the local newspaper, I felt excited. The educational leaders finally made a decision based on science and best practices. They chose to not implement policies based upon a minority, albeit loud and antagonistic parental input.

Then the next sentence in the article invaded my thoughts. “But the plan had a big caveat — parents who don’t want their kids to wear masks have the option to opt-out.”

As a retired English teacher and school administrator, I did what any confused educator does, and consulted Merriam Webster.

“Mandate definition is — an authoritative command; especially, a formal order from a superior court or official to an inferior one.” It went on to state, “A mandate from a leader is a command you can’t refuse.”

The school district’s policy on masks has an opt-out clause that allows parents to waive the requirement. This is a strategy I have observed occurring across the nation, simulating making a decision coupled with opposing actions creates an oxymoron. Thus, the result allows patrons to do whatever they wish.

Each of the following statements contain an oxymoron while describing the situation.

• The district made an awfully good decision — awful for some and good for others.
• Every patron got almost exactly what they wanted — leaving few satisfied.
• Many parents believe exposing children to the threat of COVID is their only choice — other alternatives are available.
• The newspaper reported the policy as new information when in fact it is old news — students and parents can still make their own decisions about masks.
• Once again, a small crowd forced a decision for all stakeholders — few but mighty.

It seems the definition of mandatory will need a revision by Mr. Webster. Currently, the synonyms associated with mandate are command, decree, dictate, ordain, order and these don’t align with the use of the word in society when an opt-out option overrides a mandate.

Now that I know that is an option, I am reconsidering many behaviors that I once thought were mandatory.

• Jury duty
• Registering with the secret service
• Car insurance
• Compulsory education
• Seat belts
• Motorcycle helmets

All I need is a note from a parent or since I am an adult, I can just do whatever I wish.