Tulsa Public Schools To Begin Mask Requirement For Students Tuesday

Students at Tulsa Public Schools will be required to wear a mask inside buildings while at school starting Tuesday. 

Teachers and staff at the district started wearing masks last week. 

TPS Superintendent Dr. Deborah Gist said in a message to parents, because of the rising number of COVID-19 cases the district decided they could improve the safety protocols. 

From August 27 to September 2, there were 1,038 close contact exposures across the district, with 141 confirmed positive cases. 

Gov. Kevin Stitt believes each family should make their own choice about wearing masks, but not all parents agree. 

"They need to be in a classroom with their teachers, with their friends, growing. socializing, learning, all of it, I think that's what is most important for Tulsa families," said parent J.J. Burnam. 

Burnam has three kids in the district and said the pandemic has been draining for families. 

He said he believes the best thing is for kids to be in the classroom, and wearing a mask is a way to keep schools open. 

"For those families who want their kids in school, in a public school, in a classroom setting, that's where I go hey let’s all do what we have to do, play our part to just keep the schools safe, and keep them open," he said. 

The district said students with an approved exemption, whether it's medical or based on the emotional needs of the student, will not have to wear one. 

The exemption request will be due by September 17.