The Oklahoma State Board of Education met yesterday and passed a resolution to encourage the use of masks in schools. You can read the resolution below.
State Board of Education Resolution
November 12, 2020
The Oklahoma State Board of Education has serious concerns about the
current surge in COVID-19 cases, with more than 4,500 new cases
recently reported out on a single day, including 608 adolescents. The
escalation of COVID hospitalizations (1,248 as of Nov. 11, 2020) and
patients in intensive care is startling and has adverse implications for
the Oklahoma healthcare statewide. The health and safety of students
and school personnel remain a pressing priority. The sharp increase in
viral transmission is particularly alarming as public schools struggle to
continue offering needed in-person instruction and providing critical
services to children.
Therefore, the State Board of Education implores Oklahoma school
boards and district superintendents to require students and staff to
wear face masks on public school campuses and within district vehicles,
and especially when in classrooms or other large gatherings. Public
health experts agree that mask-wearing and social distancing are the
most effective ways to mitigate this viral spread, which in turn would
alleviate stress on Oklahoma’s healthcare system, help keep schools
open and protect the well-being of Oklahomans.