By Goat Staff
Starting today, students from Kindergarten to Grade 3 are required to wear masks (non-medical) in B.C. schools and on busses, the same as older students.
They Province announced the changes Oct. 1st.
“In-person learning is crucial for the social and educational well-being of students,” said Jennifer Whiteside, Minister of Education. “We know there is a high level of concern among some parents, students, teachers and boards of education, especially in regions of B.C. where transmission rates are higher. We are listening to the concerns of people and, on the advice of the provincial health officer, taking further action so that families, students and staff feel secure.”
The Province says beginning this month, the Public Health Officer will release a monthly report about how the virus is affecting school-aged children.
“We know the COVID-19 virus is being transmitted more rapidly, particularly to those who don’t have the protection that vaccination offers,” said Dr. Bonnie Henry, provincial health officer. “This extra measure adds another layer of protection as we navigate this phase of the pandemic.”
Other school guidelines include daily health checks, hand washing, staying home when sick and improved ventilation systems. The guidelines also contain strategies for schools to help create space between people, including staggered recess, lunch breaks and class transition times, managing the flow of people in common areas, and using available space to spread people out.
