Student wearing face mask at school

The Fayetteville Board of Education voted unanimously to approve two new policies to help protect the health of students, staff, and visitors in district schools. The votes took place in a special meeting held today in the Fayetteville High School Cafeteria.   

Policy 1.19: Wearing Masks and Face Coverings requires the wearing of a face mask or face covering while attending school, attending a school function, or riding school-provided transportation. The policy provides for exceptions, such as for eating or drinking, when social distancing measures are in place, and in specific instructional needs as determined by the teacher. 

Policy 1.20 COVID-19 Screenings provides for the implementation of appropriate screenings for all students and employees of Fayetteville Public Schools in compliance with the official screening questions and temperature-detecting requirements issued by the Arkansas Department of Health. 

Board of Education president Nika Waitsman said the school board fully supports the new policies. “We believe these measures will be effective in helping protect our Fayetteville Public Schools family, particularly those in vulnerable situations.” 

“I am pleased with the approval of these new policies,” said Dr. John L Colbert, Superintendent of Schools. “In this continuing worldwide fight to stop the spread of COVID-19, we must do our part to protect the health of our students and staff. The research proves that masks work in slowing the spread of the virus, and screening and early detection will help identify and isolate those who might be contagious.”