Most US public schools plan to keep masks optional for the start of classes. Children participate in a class activity at the Xavier Academy on August 23, 2021 in Houston, Texas.
Mandatory Credit:	Brandon Bell/Getty Images

Most US public schools plan to keep masks optional for the start of classes. Children participate in a class activity at the Xavier Academy on August 23, 2021 in Houston, Texas.
Mandatory Credit: Brandon Bell/Getty Images

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Most US public schools plan to keep masks optional for start of classes

Students are heading to another school year amid the Covid-19 pandemic, but this time, there seem to be fewer discussions and fretting about masks and other mitigation measures -- despite a rise of infections sweeping the country.