Baton Rouge Diocese changes back-to-school policy amid pushback from community 17 hours 49 minutes 37 seconds ago Thursday, July 15 2021 Jul 15, 2021 July 15, 2021 8:33 PM July 15, 2021 in Top Story Source: WBRZ Share: BATON ROUGE - The Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge has changed course on mask requirements for students after sweeping backlash from parents. Bishop Michael Duca released a statement Thursday, saying masks will be optional for students returning to school for the fall 2021 semester. There will no longer be a requirement to prove a child's vaccination status and temperature checks will not be implemented. "My office has received and heard the concerns of parents - the first teachers of their children - and other concerned members of the community regarding the difficulties of creating a safe environment for children amid changing variables. As your bishop, I promise to re-evaluate these and any other guidelines as necessary for the duration of the health crisis," said Bishop Duca.