Knoxville Schools were prepared for the possible implementation of OSHA mandates regarding COVID vaccinations that were to happen on January 10. Per the mandate, Iowa schools and other businesses with more than 100 employees were required for staff to offer proof of vaccination or wear a mask to work and provide a negative test weekly. However, last week, Iowa Labor Commissioner Rod Roberts declared that Iowa will not enforce the federal vaccine-or-testing requirement for schools and large employers. Roberts’ announcement came as the Supreme Court heard arguments over whether the Biden administration has the authority to impose that mandate. As have many other schools in the state, Knoxville will not implement the policy pending review by the courts. While COVID-19 cases are up nationwide, Superintendent Cassi Pearson tells KNIA/KRLS News that well less than 1% of students are ill with the virus.