By Matt Fetinko

Masks not mandatory

SD 57 looking at options for restart, mandatory masks not on the table

Aug 4, 2020 | 4:54 PM

PRINCE GEORGE — An announcement in Alberta today outlined the province’s back to school plan with masks being mandatory for staff and grade four to 12 students. BC’s back to school plan does not currently have masks mandatory, in fact, BC’s Provincial Health Officer dismissed the idea during today’s briefing.

“We absolutely do see masks in certain aspects of school being important, particularly where adults are together and where children can’t maintain those safe distances so that’s all part of it,” Dr. Bonnie Henry said. “But no, we have no intention for making mandatory masks and I actually don’t believe there is evidence to support mask-wearing by children in the classroom setting.”

Plans are being looked at for all levels of schooling in School District 57 for its own guidelines once school resumes. On the subject of masks, the district will provide them for staff who want one. Grade eight to 12 students on the bus will be required to wear a mask. Board Chair Tim Bennett said they have had some informal discussions about guidelines but it’s still too early to make any firm decisions.

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“We as a board have had some high-level conversations about what September looks like. Our staff found out the information at the same time the public did,” explained Bennett. “So they are working to try to develop what our local plan is going to look like. I think as these conversations happen and more information comes out from the ministry and Provincial Health Officer, we will be able to finalize what our plan looks like for September. We know there is a lot of angst with families about what September may look like and we need to ensure that we are thinking about the safety of our 13,000 students and 2,000-plus staff and ensure we are ready to open in September as required.”

Parents will know all the finalized guidelines for a return to school by August 26.