School District 5 (SD5) has released its plans for the upcoming school year, which includes an outline for mask use and vaccine clinics.
The first day of classes will look different, as students will not start until 1 p.m. on September 7th.
School officials said the late start is to give staff time to review health and safety protocols.
Busses will run four hours later than normal, with school ending at its usual time.
SD5 officials said they are working with Interior Health to hold COVID-19 vaccine clinics within its middle and secondary schools.
More information will be released once dates are confirmed.
“Vaccinations are the most effective way to reduce the risk of COVID-19 and are available for individuals aged 12 and up,” said SD5 officials. “Schools are busy working on their new health and safety guidelines and will be posting them on their individual websites soon.”
Officials said all students from grades four to 12 will have to wear a mask, as will all adults within SD5’s schools.
Meanwhile, students in kindergarten to grade 3 will be encouraged to wear a mask, but it will not be required.
Students are asked to bring their own masks, as the schools will not have reusable masks available this year.