When School District 57 students return to class on Tuesday, they will see fewer COVID-related restrictions in place.
In a letter to parents issued on Thursday, district superintendent Cindy Heitman said the B.C. Ministry of Education has amended its COVID safety protocols, effective on Saturday.
“I would like to start this letter by thanking all of our parents and guardians who have been patient, flexible and engaging partners with School District No. 57 in the education of their children over the last two years. COVID 19 has brought rule changes, protocol adjustments, learning delivery challenges and you have responded with patience, kindness, compassion and support as we all navigate this global pandemic. We thank you whole heartedly for that,” Heitman wrote. “I am writing this letter to inform you of another ‘pivot’ we are going to undertake as a district. This means that school and school processes will start to look more like they did prior to January 2022. Your school principal will communicate your school specific plan.”
Starting on Tuesday the following changes will be in effect at local schools:
- Visitors will be welcome at schools again.
- Students will be able to more more freely around the school.
- Secondary school schedules will return to a regular semester schedule with four blocks per day.
- Events within schools will have no capacity limits.
- Events that mix students from different schools will have a 50 per cent capacity limit or a limit of 50 people, whichever is greater.
Masks will still be expected to be worn at school and during school-led activities, Heitman added. Schools will not be implementing proof of vaccination requirements for school-led gatherings and events.
“Have a fabulous Family Day and thank you again for your support and engagement as a partner in your child's learning,” Heitman wrote.
