The district will follow guidance from the Washington Department of Health. Author: Morgan Trau (KREM), Mia Hunt Published: 4:12 PM PDT July 28, 2021 Updated: 10:33 PM PDT July 28, 2021 SPOKANE, Wash. — Spokane Public Schools announced Wednesday that masks will be required for students and staff for the 2021-22 school year. The past school year was tough for everyone — students, parents, teachers and staff. "I want to do in person," Jack, 6, said. "I am feeling happy about doing first grade." After having a hybrid schedule for most of the year, returning to in-peson learning is what Jack is excited about. There is only one caveat.