The Flagstaff Unified School District's governing board on Tuesday voted to require masks inside school facilities. The decision comes despite a state law that bars mask mandates in public schools. The board noted the legislation wouldn’t go into effect until Sept. 29, 2021.
In a statement released Tuesday evening, FUSD cited guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC is now urging individuals to wear face coverings in school buildings regardless of vaccination status.
The board also cited community spread in its decision, writing that "the COVID-19 pandemic has not abated in our community and instead, cases continue to rise.” Coconino County's Health and Human Services Dept. has continued to report a rise in infections, while the CDC has categorized the county as experiencing "high transmission."
Classes begin today at FUSD. The board says further action will be discussed as Sept. 29 approaches.