In follow up to Dr. Bonnie Henry’s announcement of earlier this afternoon, the Provincial COVID-19 Communicable Disease Guidelines for K-12 Settings have been updated to reflect changes to Provincial Health Officer orders announced today and updated public health guidance from the BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC).
Recognizing schools and districts start Spring Break on different dates, this update is effective the first day of a school’s Spring Break to enable schools to finish the winter term with existing prevention measures in place. The first day of Spring Break in Coast Mountains School District 82 is Monday, March 21, 2022.
Please access the following links to view Dr. Henry’s announcement, an overview summary of key changes in March 2022 and the updated K-12 Guidelines/Guidance:
Dr. Bonnie Henry’s Announcement – March 10, 2022
Changes – Prov. COVID-19 Communicable Disease Guidelines K-12 Settings
Updated Provincial COVID-19 Communicable Disease Guidelines K-12 Settings
Updated Public Health Communicable Disease Guidance for K-12 Schools
Everyone in schools continues to be encouraged to do a daily health check, stay home when sick, and to practice hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette.
Masks and Face Coverings Update:
- From March 11 to 20, 2022 inclusive – students, staff and visitors in all CMSD82 schools and facilities will still be required to wear a mask or face covering. Exceptions will continue to be made for students and staff who cannot wear masks for medical reasons.
- March 21, 2022 onwards – masks and face coverings will no longer be required to be worn by students, staff and visitors in all CMSD82 schools and facilities. The decision to wear a mask or face covering is a personal choice for staff, students and visitors. A person’s choice should be supported and respected.
This update marks a step forward in the transition towards sustainable communicable disease management, with another update to the guidelines expected mid-April to more fully align with the updated public health guidance. This two-step transition allows schools, staff, students and families time to prepare for the planned easing of measures.
Parents/Caregivers are asked to contact their School Principal if they have any questions or concerns.