Students in Beauregard Parish schools will no longer be required to wear masks while attending classes in-person, according to school board officials.

Superintendent Timothy Cooley made the announcement on Thursday, saying that the decision was made “after much discussion” between school board members and central office administrators following Gov. John Bel Edwards’ announcement on Tuesday to largely drop his statewide mask mandate.

In his proclamation, Edwards said he would allow school districts that adhere to strict quarantine protocols for students considered close contacts of someone who tests positive to also drop their mask mandates.

Cooley said that face masks would now be considered optional for students, faculty and staff members, and that the Parent Opt-Out policy will no longer be in effect.

He added that the Beauregard Parish school district will continue to adhere to an isolation and quarantine policy for students, faculty, and staff consistent with the protocols set by the Louisiana Department of Health based upon CDC guidance.

“We will continue to monitor the situation in our schools and make changes as necessary in accordance with state and health officials’ recommendations,” Cooley stated.