BC updates mask policy in schools

BC’s Minister of Education Jennifer Whiteside has announced enhanced safety standards for students and teachers in schools with regards to mask-wearing.

The newest guidelines are for middle and secondary schools only.

“To make sure schools continue to be as safe as possible for students and staff as the pandemic evolves, we have worked with provincial health and our partners on a continuous review of the guidelines, adapting and responding when needed,” said Whiteside. “We want students, their families and staff to feel confident with the safety measures in place. That’s why we’re making these updates.”

All middle and secondary students and K-12 staff will now be required to wear non-medical masks in all indoor areas, including when they are with their learning groups. The only exceptions are when:

* sitting or standing at their seat or workstation in a classroom;
* there is a barrier in place; or
* they are eating or drinking.

Under the previous guidelines, masks were only required in high-traffic areas like hallways, lunch rooms, and school buses.

“Educators, administrators, and staff have done a great job of adapting our schools to make them safe and ensure important in-class learning continues,” said Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.’s provincial health officer. “Since the start of the school year, we have paid close attention to our schools and learned much, including the importance of having robust safety plans and using the layers of protection. Masks are one important layer, and these updated guidelines will strengthen how and where they should be used to protect everyone.”

More to come.