TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) — With the start of a new school year amid a pandemic, Leon County Schools is taking extra precautions by requiring face coverings for students and staff.
Talk of the district's mask policy surfaced weeks ago, but now the county has recently updated it's mask policy to include specifications on what type of face coverings are permitted, what areas they are required, and non-compliance procedures.
Students and staff are expected to wear face coverings during school hours whenever social distancing is not possible, which includes inside classroom. Not sure what all the policy includes? Leon County Schools has a list:
CAMPUS-WIDE FACE COVERING ZONES:
| Hallway Transitions | Main Office |
| Restrooms | Student Services Office |
| OFI Classroom | Guidance Office Area |
| Clinic | New Horizons Program Office |
| COVID-19 Isolation Room | School Bus |
Before School Mass Gathering Locations (Cafeteria, Picnic Area, Gym, Media Center) | After School Dismissal Locations (Parent Drop-Off, Bus Ramp, Flag Pole Gate Area) |
That list also includes a face covering requirement in all classrooms. Students will also be allowed to take mask breaks, which will be determined and supervised by teachers.
The only exception to the face covering rule is during the consumption of food and beverages during breakfast and lunch and for students with medical conditions.
Face coverings will be placed back on when breakfast/lunch is complete. If your child is not able to wear a face covering, the mask exemption must be a part of an on-file health plan so be sure to contact your school.
Be aware that a doctor’s note or 504 plan will no longer suffice for a mask exemption.
As for the types of face coverings allowed, they can include a cloth mask with ear loops or ties, or medical-grade masks (e.g., surgical face masks, N95 respirators) and must cover the nose and mouth completely.
Here's what's not allowed: Any mask that incorporates a valve that is designed to facilitate easy exhaling, mesh masks, masks with openings, holes, visible gaps in the design or material, or vents, gaiters and/or bandannas.
Individual needs regarding face coverings will be addressed on a case by case basis. Requests for accommodations should be submitted to school administration.
Now, what happens if your student doesn't comply with the face covering policy at school? Here's what the district has to say about it:
You can read LCS' full face covering policy below.
