FUSD Governing Board Changes Mask Requirement To “Encourage To Wear” After New CDC Guidelines Announced Friday

The Flagstaff Unified School District Governing Board decided at a special meeting Monday, to change the district’s policy requiring masks worn inside school buildings, to “encourage, not require.” The board voted 3-2 to go along with Superintendent Michael Penca’s recommendation to amend its mask requirement to encourage, but not require, face masks. Students, faculty and staff can still wear masks at any time at to their comfort level. Board member Christine Fredericks was a “no” vote, citing her concern that the Navajo Nation is still requiring masks. Leupp School is on the Navajo Nation, but is operated by FUSD. Penca says people who decide to wear them should be supported and respected. The change to the policy is effective immediately.