Reply To: Declination form for religious reason exemption
Below is from HR expert Shaw HR Consulting
You cannot mandate she wear a mask and violate her religion BUT she would then only be entitled to leave. She needs to wear a mask in the workplace per current public health K-12 guidelines.
I would be sure to explain that while her religious beliefs restrict her from wearing a mask, the District cannot violate current OSHA and public health standards. As such, she would be accommodated with leave until such time either mask guidelines change. She can wear a mask or a shield with drape, but if those are both not options, she would be on a leave. (I assume she cannot do 100% of her job at home and as such, would only have the option of leave.)
You can cite the language here in your communications with her as guidelines for ALL K-12 schools in California: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-19/K-12-Guidance-2021-22-School-Year.aspx
