Letter to the editor: Parents should remember masks, sanitizers this year

As school bells ring, parents are wringing their hands about the safety of their children. With inconsistent messages from media sources, school boards, Dr. Fauci, the governor and the president, it's understandable that some parents are confused.

Although COVID-19 is a beast, the delta variant is a more vicious beast; therefore, relaxing COVID-19 protocols, prematurely, could have devastating consequences.

The wellbeing of children should not be mindlessly relegated to politicians because some of them will say anything to advance their political agenda. Further, protecting children is not the sole responsibility of local schools. Parents must insist that COVID-19 protocols are monitored and consistently followed.

As parents purchase back-to-school supplies, they should remember to put masks and hand sanitizers at the top of the list.

BEVERLY DIANE FRIERSON

Columbia