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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

AIBU to want to wear a mask again in my classroom

487 replies

EmsHugs · 19/08/2024 08:05

Would like to know AIBU to not give in to this parent demand.

I am in my second trimester but still quite small so not told many people as we still have some tests etc and i am listed as high risk. It is my first pregnancy after years of infertility, failed IVf and and I am being super cautious. Before the summer when I was in the early weeks of my pregnancy I caught covid and was very ill so since returning to school I have chosen to wear a mask, particularly as I have still to get several of the vaccinations like flu, whooping cough etc.

A parent of a child has put in a complaint and said I should remove the mask because it makes their child anxious but I have said while I am sorry their child does not like the mask, due to current health issues I will not. They have now made accusations that I am a poor teacher and not respectful of their child's issues, however as a high school teacher I have over 500 pupils in and out my classroom every week and want to every precaution I can to protect my baby. The school are aware why I am doing this and said they will explain to the parent but several of my colleagues, friends and family members are still not awaresi am pregnant so I do not particularly feel I should have to divulge this to a parent and that stating my health concerns should be sufficient. I have even sat with the child and explained that I wear the mask to protect myself and that I need to wear it for now but that may change later but I appreciate them being understanding. The pupil seemed to be okay but the parent continues to be adament and I believe it is because I have immediately not given into them and stood my ground.

The stress of this parent sending complaints everytime this child is in my class 4 times a week, is getting me very stressed so I would like to know:

AIBU to not divulge at the moment the reason I need to wear a mask
AINBU the parent needs to realise they cannot get everything they want.

OP posts:
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Werweisswohin · 19/08/2024 08:19

I don't think teachers wearing a mask should be encouraged tbh.
It's a false sense of security too, because you're not actually protecting yourself from anything.

UtterlyQuackers · 19/08/2024 08:18

Can they move class?

I don't think the child feeling anxious trumps you feeling like you wish to wear a mask. It is your decision to wear a mask and it should be respected.

Marinel · 19/08/2024 08:18

As others have said, we were told to wear a mask to protect others in case we had an infection. Not to protect yourself. So wearing a mask is illogical and unlikely to help.

Recoverymoreprotein · 19/08/2024 08:18

The normal paper mask won’t help. You will need a higher qualifity one.

TomeTome · 19/08/2024 08:16

I don’t think you need to tell anyone what condition is causing your behaviour. You could have any number of issues that made contracting infections problematic. However have you actually been told to wear a mask in school? I don’t think it’s an amazingly effective way of avoiding contamination. Do you keep the windows open and wash your hands regularly? Are you avoiding public places like cinemas and restaurants? I guess I’m asking if it really is necessary?

Jjiillkkf · 19/08/2024 08:16

Is there any evidence a mask is of any use?

TeenToTwenties · 19/08/2024 08:15

I'm torn.
I completely see your point.
But my DD had a complete breakdown in the pandemic and us not yet fully recovered. She would find it hard to be taught by a teacher in a mask. I wouldn't complain though, I'd try to help DD cope.
Would sick leave/going on maternity early be an option for you in any way? Guess not.

cansu · 19/08/2024 08:15

I think that yes you should be able to wear a mask. If only one child in 500 has an issue with it the parent needs to wind their neck in. However I think you should also consider speaking to your doctor to find out whether this is actually necessary or whether this is more an anxiety issue. Maybe what you actually need is some time off work sick.

Rocknrollstar · 19/08/2024 08:14

Masks help stop you spreading an infection, they don’t stop you catching one.

CosmicDaisyChain · 19/08/2024 08:14

Sorry. I think you may have health anxiety or something because this really isn't going to protect you anyway. We know that masks don't stop us catching anything. You'll still catch things anyway.

Sirzy · 19/08/2024 08:10

It makes it harder for a lot of pupils for a variety of reasons. I don’t think school staff wearing masks all the time is a good idea.

PotteringAlonggotkickedoutandhadtoreregister · 19/08/2024 08:09

Even in the height of Covid we didn’t wear masks to teach in; it’s just not feasible.