Candidate List of Shame
Joyce Fletcher, Republican for District 1 Magistrate
Embedded Files
Mask Mandates
Like most school districts across the Commonwealth, Oldham County Schools closed in 2020 and faced significant challenges in reopening amid evolving guidance and pressure from state and federal authorities. Throughout this period, many families remained patient and understanding, extending considerable grace to district leadership as they navigated unprecedented circumstances.
However, by the summer of 2021, as the pandemic began to subside, concerns grew among parents regarding inconsistencies in the application of COVID-19 policies. Across the state, public gatherings and protests were permitted, and while in many settings, such as summer camps, childcare programs, and certain school-related activities, mask requirements were inconsistently enforced, if at all. In most cases, staff were able to work in school buildings without face coverings, as well.
As the new school year approached, many families anticipated a return to normal operations for their children. Instead, continued mandates led to increased frustration from families.
Ms. Fletcher voted to require masking multiple times: July 14th, 2020; August 9th, 2021; October 25, 2021; November 8th, 2021, (optional for high school); January 10th, 2022, while at the same time, not wearing a mask herself at public events.
In September 2021, the Kentucky General Assembly passed legislation allowing school districts to determine their own COVID-19 policies. Oldham County Schools chose to continue requiring masks rather than adopt a mask-optional approach, despite strong opposition from many parents. This decision prompted significant backlash from families.
Contrary to popular beliefs, there were school districts throughout Kentucky that allowed families to have mask-choice including Science Hill, Hickman County, Mercer County, Clinton County, and Gallatin County.
Even though information was emerging that face masks were not as effective as previously believed, she voted to continue the mask mandate on January 10th, 2022, anyway.
Ms. Fletcher was quite opinionated on the Next Door social media app. She shared this post with the caption, "This is what 'choice' gets you. NTI."
Here are several examples of comments she supported:
Source:
Finally, in February 2022, OCPS ended the mask mandate.
Also worth noting: during the September 27, 2021 school board meeting, a woman named Denise Watts alleged that she was denied entry because she refused to wear a face mask. You can watch her account here.
Disclaimer:
The information presented here is provided solely for educational purposes to assist voters in making informed decisions. All content is derived from publicly available records and reflects factual, historical information regarding a candidate’s actions, votes, and public statements. It is not intended to personally disparage or defame any individual.
The publication of this information is protected under the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, which safeguards the right to discuss matters of public concern, including the qualifications and conduct of candidates for public office. The U.S. Supreme Court has consistently affirmed these protections, including in New York Times Co. v. Sullivan, which established broad protections for speech about public officials, and Garrison v. Louisiana, which reinforced the right to critique the conduct of public officials.
The purpose of this website is to provide voters with relevant, factual information about a candidate’s public record so they may evaluate whether the candidate aligns with their values and merits their support in an election.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse