DeKalb County Schools not requiring masks after mandate expires Many schools are debating whether to mask or not mask after the state mandate is lifted By Stefante Randall | April 6, 2021 at 9:22 PM CDT - Updated April 6 at 9:22 PM DEKALB COUNTY, Ala. (WAFF) - A statewide mask mandate will expire in Alabama this Friday, but school leaders still must decide what happens in their own districts. Starting on April 12th, masks will no longer be required at DeKalb County Schools, as long as the Governor doesnât change her decision. âWeâve seen a steady decline in cases and itâs almost been non-existent for the last several weeks at our schools. Just like we have the last several months and past year, we will be responsive on any tends, data or upticks and will respond when necessary,â said Barnett.