The B.C. government announced Monday that school staff, middle school students and secondary students will be required to wear masks in high-traffic areas in September.
This includes buses and common areas, such as hallways, or anytime they are outside of their learning group where physical-distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19 cannot be maintained.
Exceptions will be made for students who cannot wear a mask for a medical reason, the province said.
Staff and students must still maintain physical distancing with people outside of their learning group at all times.
- Alberta government develops new certification process to meet demand for teachers
- Calgary city council rejects proposal for charter school in northeast industrial area
- SAIT layoffs highlight funding challenges at Alberta post-secondary schools
- Funding cut for B.C. non-profit that provides services for people with disabilities
The government said it’s purchasing up to 1.5 million masks to help meet this requirement — enough for every public school staff member and student to have two masks.
Get weekly health news
Additional funds will also be provided to ensure enhanced cleaning measures, handwashing stations, and transparent barriers are put in place on school grounds.
Districts are expected to communicate further details throughout the summer regarding schedules, learning groups, and plans to parents, students, and staff, as well as post them online by Aug. 26.
– More to come.
Comments
Want to discuss? Please read our Commenting Policy first.