Kentucky Board Of Education Unanimously Approves Universal Masking In Public Schools

The new emergency regulation is expected to go into 2022.

(Frankfort, Ky.) – The time to mask up has come around again in Kentucky schools. 

The Kentucky Board of Education unanimously approved today a new emergency regulation requiring universal masking in public schools into 2022.

The KBE unanimously approves the emergency regulation requiring masks in Kentucky public schools for up to 270 days. The motion notes that if CDC or Ky. DPH rescind their universal masking recommendation, the KBE will immediately call a meeting to consider withdrawing the reg.

— KSBA (@ksbanews) August 12, 2021

The decision comes on the heels of Governor Andy Beshear signing an executive order requiring face coverings in all schools. 

The motion notes that if the CDC or Kentucky Department of Health rescind their universal masking recommendation, the Board of Education will immediately call a meeting to consider withdrawing the regulation.

KSBA Chairwoman Lu Young says she believes masks are “a very practical strategy that will reduce the number of days students and staff will have to quarantine and therefore keep schools open this year.”

Board member Patrice McCrary used an example at Warren County Schools to backup Young’s claim, stating that Warren County has had over 1,000 students in quarantine after four days of masks being optional – adding that about 10 percent of students wore masks.

It appears that a majority of the state's educators are on board with masking up. An informal poll of Kentucky educators showed 94 percent would support a statewide mask mandate.

The KSBA was asked what happens if a superintendent refuses to enforce the mask mandate. In response, Commissioner Jason Glass stated that educators have to follow the law as part of their licensure and note the license could be revoked.

Lt. Jacqueline Governor supports universal masking in schools.

“I support local decision making when it’s a local issue, but COVID-19 is not. Failing to implement a mask mandate would be negligent. If we want students in school, get vaccinated and wear a mask,” said Coleman.

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