Northeast WA school district ends face mask requirement, state threatens to withhold funding

A northeastern Washington school district is risking state funding by no longer requiring face masks for students and staff.

The Kettle Falls School Board voted Monday night to make masks optional, KXLY-TV reported. The rule goes into effect immediately.

The statewide outdoor mask mandate ends Friday, but Gov. Inslee has not made a decision on the mandate ending for schools and indoor locations. State superintendent Chris Reykdal has spoken in favor of ending the mask mandate in schools.

The school board’s decision violates Gov. Inslee's mask mandate, which state Superintendent Chris Reykdal said could result in a reduction or withholding of school funding. 

Washington’s mask mandate has been in effect since Aug. 23, 2021.

Reykdal said the district will have until March 2 to provide verification of compliance with the mask mandate. 

In a letter to district superintendent Michael Olsen, Reykdal wrote, in part: 

"The research is clear – masks work to reduce the spread of COVID. I understand there are also downsides to mask wearing that must be considered in the context of vaccine availability, rapid testing options, and substantial infection acquired immunity. These considerations are legally in the hands of public health officials and the Governor, not local school boards. The Governor’s proclamation has the power of law, and I will not hesitate to uphold the law consistent with my oath of office. I trust Governor Inslee and the state Department of Health to make additional changes to our health mitigation expectations consistent with the latest science, health outcomes, and opportunities for individuals to protect themselves from the most severe outcome of a COVID infection. Until they take those actions, the Kettle Falls School District and all other school districts need to follow the law and take shared responsibility for our collective ability to mitigate COVID risks." 

According to data from the Washington State Department of Health, Stevens County has the lowest community vaccination rate in the state. 

You can read Reykdal's full letter below or click here.

RELATED: Washington state superintendent wants mask mandate lifted in schools

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