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Ms. Paula Lewis, OKCPS Board Chair releases statement about masking and vaccination
“We know our students learn best when they are in the school building and we are glad to be able to offer in-person learning 5 days a week to kick off the school year, which starts Monday, August 9th!
However, in order to keep OKCPS students and staff in our buildings, we need everyone to work together as a community. Science tells us that the two most important mitigation strategies in the school setting are the appropriate wearing of masks and vaccinations. We highly encourage those who are eligible to receive the vaccine to do so as soon as possible. Because our youngest learners can not yet be vaccinated, we are asking our families and staff to consider wearing a mask to help protect them.
Unfortunately, the Governor and State Legislature have taken decision-making authority regarding these two measures out of the control of school districts and their boards. Despite this, OKCPS’ safety plan utilizes layers of mitigation, including cleaning, physical distancing, air ionization systems, contact tracing, robust testing and vaccination plans, as well as a focus on good hygiene practices, so that we can provide the safest possible environment for our students and staff. While not required, we strongly recommend wearing a mask anytime you are indoors and with other people.
The health and safety of our students and staff is always a top priority and OKCPS will continue to work closely with our public health officials.”