State: 21 school districts on probation for not complying with mask mandate

Since last week, Illinois State Board of Education has put 21 school districts on probation for flouting a universal mask mandate for students ordered by Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Aug. 4 to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

“These districts confirmed that they were not complying with the universal indoor masking requirement,” ISBE spokeswoman Jaklyn Matthews said. “These districts now have the opportunity to meet with ISBE and to submit a corrective action plan to address the deficiencies that are presenting a danger to students and staff.

“School districts that do not submit an approvable plan will lose recognition status, meaning total loss of access to state funding and the inability to participate in IHSA and IESA sports.”

The districts are in Adams, Clay, Clinton, Edwards, Effingham, Franklin, Fulton, Hancock, Henderson, Jefferson, Knox, Livingston, Macon, Marion, Peoria, Randolph, Wayne and Winnebago counties. Disciplinary actions occurred between Aug. 12 and Monday. All are public school districts.

Read more: https://www.shawlocal.com/coronavirus/2021/08/18/state-21-school-districts-on-probation-for-not-complying-with-mask-mandate/
(Crystal Lake Northwest Herald)