The Government of B.C. announced this week that masks will be required in the fall school year for all staff, middle and secondary students, and what that will look like.

This requirement applies in high-traffic areas like buses and hallways or anytime outside the learning group when distance can’t be maintained. Exceptions will be made for students whom, due to medical reasons, can’t wear a mask. 

According to the release, “A learning group includes students and staff who remain together throughout the school quarter, semester or year, which could be made up of a single class of students or multiple classes of students.” 

Schools will also ensure non-medical masks are available for staff if someone gets sick while at school. The education ministry is providing additional funding to school districts to buy up to 1.5 million masks; two each at least for every public school student and staff member.  

Canadian Shield recently announced they are donating an additional 54,500 face shields for K-12 schools in B.C. 

For more information on B.C.'s Back to School Plan, click HERE.