Colorado school district adds extra officers on first day due to ‘tensions’ over mask mandate

A Colorado school district on Monday said law enforcement officers will be present on campuses due to tensions surrounding the district’s mask mandate policy.

“The law enforcement presence is being increased due to the tensions in the community, related to the new mask guidelines at several schools. Local Law Enforcement is working closely with Eagle County Schools and our community members to ensure the safety of our children,” Eagle County Schools said in a statement.

Eagle County Schools issued an order last week requiring schools where the majority of students are still ineligible to get vaccinated to enforce mask wearing. 

This order will mainly affect elementary schools as COVID-19 vaccines are still not authorized for children under the age of 12.

“Our goal is the same as yours, getting our children back to school safely. Law Enforcement is requesting that persons who are wishing to express their opinions, not interfere or interrupt the freedom of movement and the functions of the schools,” the district said. “We are requesting that the community partner with us to ensure that our students and schools are safe and secure and our children can start the new year off right.”

Across the country, numerous school districts have issued mask mandates for their students and teachers as the new academic year begins. Many districts have found themselves having to directly oppose their state governments as GOP governors issue bans on such measures.

Colorado has not issued a ban on mask mandates and is still allowing local communities to determine mask restrictions.

Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson (R) said earlier this month that he regrets signing a ban on mask mandates and asked the state legislature to reverse the legislation.