Many families are concerned with the requirement of wearing masks to school each day-- especially for our littlest Wildcats. Since March, we have had many meetings with state and county health department officials, state epidemiologists, state education leaders, school nurses, and surrounding school district leaders. 

Due to the rising rate of positive COVID-19 diagnoses and our primary goal of keeping our students and staff well, our team made the difficult decision to require face coverings this school year. Our early childhood teachers know that every moment is a teaching moment. We will spend those early days teaching the why and how of wearing face masks. We will make it as fun as possible-- special storytimes, art projects, and games. We will gently encourage students who need reminders.

We consulted CDC guidelines , the American Academy of Pediatrics' literature , Oklahoma Department of Health personnel, and various health professionals.
"Will my student have to wear a mask during recess?"

"Can they wear a face shield instead of a mask?"

These are only two of MANY questions regarding the PPS mask requirement for the 2020-21 school year. Please review the mask guidelines & requirements listed below.
Masks are a MUST when...

Entering or exiting the building.

Transitioning from room to room or class to class.

Entering or exiting the cafeteria.

Sitting in close proximity to others (within 6 ft.)
Masks are not required when...

Eating breakfast or lunch.

At recess.

In P.E. while participating in the activity - social distancing is a must!

In situations where individuals can be separated by AT LEAST 6 ft. i.e. reading around the room or outdoor learning.
Face Covering Options:
  • All students and staff are required to wear a mask or "gaitor"
  • GET CREATIVE! Wear your favorite color, represent your team, or show off your favorite character. *Keep it school appropriate!
  • Face shields are ONLY PERMISSIBLE when worn with a mask or for students or staff who are unable, due to medical necessity as documented by a physician.
  • Teachers & staff may remove their mask & wear only a face shield while teaching specific concepts that require students to visually acknowledge the teacher's mouth movements.
  • If they are wearing ONLY a shield, teachers are expected to maintain at least 6ft. of space between the student and themselves when possible.
Start encouraging your student to wear a mask enthusiastically. Making your student comfortable wearing a mask helps us protect staff and other students who may be part of a vulnerable population. Below are a few reinforcement resources and activities you can start using now to help us make the start of school much easier.
Click here for a printable PDF social story about wearing a mask to school.
Click here for a self-portrait mask
activity for your student.
Click here for a short, informational
video about wearing a mask.
Click here for the "Wear a Mask"
song for kids.
Piedmont Public Schools