HAMDEN, Conn. (WTNH) — With the statewide school mask mandate set to expire on Monday, it will be up to each school district to decide whether or not to enforce masks in the classroom.

In Hamden, a petition in favor of universal masking created by a group of parents has almost reached its goal of 300 signatures.

“Of course, there is always a requirement, a mandate for exceptions for children with special needs and accommodations for these people. It makes it all the more important that those who can, should and should wear masks so that we can all get through this safely,” said Sarah Dunn, parent of Hamden.

There have been protests against the imposition of masks in schools, such as one at the State Capitol on the first day of the legislative session two weeks ago. The group Unmask Our Kids CT says the mandates infringe on their rights and that parents should choose.

They argued that the masks harmed their children, especially their mental health.

A student from Hamden spoke passionately about his experience at the February 9 protest.

“I’ve been bullied and disciplined, my personal space invaded, I’ve been tied up, my name has been tarnished and my younger brother doesn’t even know what normalcy looks like.”

The Hamden School Board is holding a special meeting on Monday February 28 to decide whether to retain or remove the mandate in the district.