Harrisburg adds exemptions to district-wide mask mandate

HARRISBURG, Mo. (KMIZ)

The Harrisburg R-VIII School District has added exemptions to its mask policy, according to a release from the district.

The district says medical exemptions to the mask mandate will be honored when written by a licensed physician for medical need, complication or pre-existing condition. 

The district will also accept religious exceptions in some cases.

“Requests for religious exemption will be considered if the request contains documentation of the specific religious beliefs that are claimed to be violated by the mask requirement," the district's statement said. "The religious beliefs must be long-standing and personal to the individual seeking the exemption.  Lastly, requests for exemption must contain verification of the validity of the request from Clergymen, Rabi, Priests, Imen, etc.”

Harrisburg R-VIII recently announced its decision to implement a mask mandate after a board of education meeting. The requirement applies to all students and staff any time social distancing is not possible indoors.

Students and staff will also be required to wear a mask during entry and dismissal, as well as on buses.