LANCASTER, Pa. (WHTM) — As of Monday, Sept. 13., Eastern Lancaster County School District is allowing “relief from mask and face-covering mandates” as long a request for Exception Form is filled out, signed, and submitted to the school.

Exceptions are allowed and accepted without a medical professional’s signature. Students must wear a mask if they do not have the exception form signed and returned by their parents. According to a letter sent to parents, the forms must be submitted by Friday, Sept. 24.

“For those who wish an alternative to in-person learning, we encourage those families to switch over to our ElancOnline program,” Robert M. Hollister, superintendent, said in the letter to parents.

The letter also included the latest COVID-19 conditions at the district’s schools:

• Blue Ball Elementary — Total 5 positive cases, 2 staff, 3 learners (4 in the building during infectious period)
• Brecknock Elementary — Total 2 positive cases, 0 staff, 2 learners (0 in the building during infectious period)
• New Holland Elementary — Total 11 positive cases, 3 staff, 8 learners (8 in the building during infectious period)
• Garden Spot Secondary Campus (7-12) — Total 38 positive cases, 3 staff, 35 learners (34 in the building during infectious period)

For more information, visit the district’s News and Announcements page by clicking here.