Masked Teacher Kicked Out of Class

A Joliet elementary school teacher who suffers from severe allergies is battling the school district over its refusal to allow her to wear a respiratory mask.

Patricia McReynolds, a 14-year math and science teacher, is on leave as she battles the school district. She filed a complaint with the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission after Joliet School District 86 officials questioned her need to use the masks, and barred her from wearing one on school grounds.

In a meeting Monday with her attorney and district officials, McReynolds said the district reiterated its stance and has asked her to go to her doctor for written proof that she needs a mask. McReynolds said she already has notes from three doctors.

School district officials said it is a personnel matter and refused to comment.