On August 18, 2021, U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona sent letters to schools regarding states’ banning school mask mandates. He also stated that the U.S. Department of Education (USDE) may investigate complaints from the public relating to the banning of school mask requirements as a civil rights issue. He also lent his support to school officials who defy the mandate bans in order to protect students and staff from a raging pandemic, while reiterating points made in the White House’s memo of support for local decision-making when instructional delivery issues are involved.

To view the USDE letters, click here.

To view the White House memo, click here.