Duval County Public Schools unveils its mask requirement policy

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Duval County Public Schools released details of its mask policy for students, including procedures on how parents can medically opt their child out of the requirement.

The school board voted 5-2 at an emergency meeting on Monday and the new policy will officially go into effect on Tuesday, Sept. 7.

Here are the steps parents need to follow if they wish to medically opt their child out of being required to wear a mask:

• Download the COVID-19 Face Covering Certification Form.
• Fill out the top portion. Parents and guardians do not need to fill out employee worksite and ID blanks.
• Sign the form.
• Contact your health care provider and have your health care provider complete and sign the bottom section of the form.
• Return the form to your school either in person or electronically. We encourage you to keep a copy of the form for your records.

Noncompliance with the policy could result in discipline. DCPS said “students who do not follow the masking guidelines may be charged with a Code of Student Conduct infraction and be subject to the appropriate consequences.”

To read the policy in full, including protocols at athletic and performing arts events, visit the DCPS website.

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