Decorah schools superintendent says nullified mask mandate 'was about our care for others' Isabella Rosario, Des Moines Register Iowa passes a law banning mask mandates Replay Video UP NEXT Instead, "it was a measure put in place to ensure the idea that we are a community of care was more than just words," he wrote. In an interview with the Register, Lane said "based on CDC guidance, we felt like masking was an essential element" in making people feel safe at school. The CDC recommends universal mask-wearing in schools for the rest of the 2020-2021 year. To Lane, wearing a mask is a way to show compassion toward staff, students and families more vulnerable to COVID-19.