Local

OCPS makes masks optional for students, visitors

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Following Gov. Ron DeSantis’ announcement Thursday, Orange County Public Schools said masks will now be optional for students in district buildings and vehicles.

“Parent notes are no longer required and staff will no longer monitor face mask compliance,” the district tweeted.

>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<

Beginning Nov. 29, after Thanksgiving break, masks will also be optional for all adults on school district property including visitors, vendors and volunteers.

READ: DeSantis signs bills to prevent employers from firing workers over COVID-19 vaccination mandates

“If you were one of the 5,600+ people who received the COVID-19 vaccine during one of our vaccination events, thank you,” the district tweeted. “The COVID vaccine is voluntary but strongly encouraged.”

Vaccination events will continue at the school district after Thanksgiving break. Click here for more information.

READ: Florida House approves bill that could impose fines for businesses requiring COVID-19 vaccine

OCPS will be closed next week for the holiday.

As of Thursday, school districts may not have school face mask policies and may not quarantine healthy students. Students and parents may sue violating school districts and recover costs and attorney’s fees.

READ: Agriculture commissioner calls for investigation into state’s high gas prices

Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.

Adam Poulisse, WFTV.com

Adam Poulisse joined WFTV in November 2019.