WA Will Block Funding To Schools That Don't Enforce Masking

OLYMPIA, WA — Any Evergreen State school that does not enforce mask use or social distancing will be denied state and federal funding, says Washington State Superintendent Chris Reykdal. The same is true for schools that do not offer students the opportunity for full-time, in-person learning this coming fall semester.

In a letter sent late last month to school directors and superintendents across Washington state, Reykdal explained that districts are legally obligated to follow the state's COVID-19 regulations.

"As state Superintendent, I have a responsibility to carry out the law, and I intend to do so, regardless of how I might personally feel about masks, or any other requirement placed upon this system at this time," Reykdal wrote.

"Boards or districts that intentionally disobey, dismiss, or shun an explicit law, including a Governor’s executive order, which has the power of law, will see an immediate halt to their basic education apportionment, and their federal funds that come through OSPI."

The state superintendent went on to explain that community members are free to express their displeasure with the order, and may bring their concerns to local and state leaders, but that COVID-19 safety regulations will not be decided by local school boards or superintendents.

"Community actions that result in board actions that violate the law, including executive orders, will jeopardize school budgets, local school personnel, and ultimately the opening of school to in-person learning this fall and beyond," Reykdal wrote.

Reykdal's letter reaffirms a recent statement by Gov. Jay Inslee. At a news conference last week, Inslee asserted that the state will require all students and employees at Washington schools to wear masks while on campus.

"Importantly, this is a legal requirement that all districts will have to follow," Inslee said.

State health leaders say the concession is necessary to protect students under 12, who are not eligible for vaccination.

Related: All Washingtonians Should Mask Up Again, Inslee Recommends

Some local districts have had a relatively easy time adjusting to the masking and social distancing requirements imposed by the state. Others, such as the Sumner-Bonney Lake School District in Pierce County, have been grappling with upset community members who believe the masking order is a sign of government overreach. Just last week, that district issued a letter to parents explaining that masking decisions were out of local control.

"Please note, this masking decision is not a choice being left to local school boards; it's a state mandate," the district wrote.