The Bismarck School Board on Monday voted to end the district's mask requirement amid low numbers of COVID-19 cases among students and staff. The board unanimously decided to make wearing a mask a recommendation and to end district contact tracing efforts starting May 4, to the applause of dozens of people in attendance. The mask mandate has been in place since the fall. Parents have spoken out against the policy during at least two board meetings this school year. Superintendent Jason Hornbacher recommended the board lift the mask mandate given Gov. Doug Burgum's decision to end the state's coronavirus-related state of emergency, the opportunity for staff to get a COVID-19 vaccination and low numbers of COVID-19 cases among students and staff.