Masks optional for students, staff returning to P.E.I. schools in September

CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. — Masks shall be elective when P.E.I. college students and employees return to high school subsequent month. 

Dr. Heather Morrison, P.E.I.’s chief public well being officer, launched the provincial back-to-school plan for college kids Thursday, which does not embrace a masks mandate for college kids and employees in class or on faculty buses.

Nonetheless, Morrison stated masks are inspired, and anybody who desires to put on a masks is supported in doing so.

Masks are additionally “advisable” for employees working with college students at greater threat of extreme sickness and outcomes from COVID-19 every time bodily distancing is not possible.

Morrison stated she expects to see a rise in COVID-19 exercise within the fall.

“A rise in COVID-19 exercise is predicted this fall, with the return to high school and different actions, however it’s our objective to have college students return with routine measures in place for so long as attainable,” stated Morrison. 

“As a province, crucial factor we will do to assist these returning to high school is being reminded of the various layers of safety we’ve got in place, together with getting vaccinated, staying dwelling if you end up not feeling effectively and following testing and isolation steerage when you develop signs.”

Morrison inspired employees and college students to sanitize palms and high-touch surfaces, keep dwelling if unwell and get vaccinated.

Ought to the COVID-19 scenario change, Morrison stated masking may turn into necessary for college kids and employees when shifting by means of faculty buildings and buses or different “outbreak administration measures as wanted.”

“The well being and security of our college students and employees throughout the Island is, and can at all times be, our primary precedence,” stated Training Minister Natalie Jameson.

“We are going to proceed to work with the Chief Public Well being Workplace and Dr. Morrison to make sure that we maintain our faculties wholesome whereas encouraging protected and constructive studying environments for everybody.”