Atlanta-area schools' patchwork mask rules spark confusion among families

Atlanta — As students are returning to the classroom, there's been confusion and frustration over masking policies. In some school districts, like those in the Atlanta area, there is a patchwork of mask requirements as COVID-19 vaccination rates lag. 

Masking policies vary by school district, even day to day. Douglas County changed its policy two days before school began, from masks recommended to masks required.  "Leading isn't easy, and I know that the decision to wear masks, that isn't popular," Douglas County superintendent Trent North said. "As soon as it's safe, we're going to go back to not wearing masks."