Which metro-area schools are requiring masks?

Mandate opt-outs allowed by some

Despite a state law discouraging mask mandates in public schools, some Oklahoma school districts and charter schools have enacted requirements.

Santa Fe South Charter Schools was the first school district in the state to require mask wearing since Senate Bill 658 took effect July 1. Oklahoma City Public Schools soon followed.

The state law prohibits school boards of public school districts from requiring vaccines and mask wearing. Both Oklahoma City and Santa Fe South skirted the law by having their superintendents issue the requirement and offering an opt-out process.

Other school districts and charter schools have since used the same formula to implement mask mandates.

SB 658 doesn’t restrict private schools, clearing the way for multiple schools in the metro area to mandate face coverings.

Western Heights Public Schools is the latest Oklahoma City school district to mandate mask wearing. State-appointed Interim Superintendent Monty Guthrie notified families the requirement would take effect Aug. 24.

“While this time is full of the unknowns, one thing is for sure: our students learn better when they are in the classroom,” Guthrie wrote in a message to families.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended universal masking in K-12 schools regardless of vaccination status to prevent spread of COVID-19.

Have a tip for more Oklahoma City metro-area schools requiring masks? Contact education reporter Nuria Martinez-Keel at nmartinez-keel@oklahoman.com.

PHOTOS BY CHRIS LANDSBERGER/THE OKLAHOMAN Students arrive in the drop-off lane Aug. 9 at Rockwood Elementary for Oklahoma City Public Schools’ first day of class.

A student arrives at Rockwood Elementary on Aug. 9. Masks are required, but opt-outs are allowed.