The Alberta Government announced some additional mandates for children going back to school in the fall.

Dr. Deena Hinshaw and Minster of Education Ariana Lagrange announced to Alberta on Tuesday, August 4 that all children in grades 4-12 will have to wear masks in some areas of schools.

Mask use will be mandatory for staff and teachers in all settings where physical distancing cannot be maintained.

Students will be required to wear masks in shared and common areas such as hallways and on buses.

Students are not required to wear masks in the classroom as long as desks are separated, facing forward, and the teacher is distant from the students.

Dr. Hinshaw explained that she thinks this is the best decision for students in Alberta.

“After reviewing the emerging evidence, it is clear that masks can play an important role in limiting the spread of COVID-19. I am not making this updated recommendation lightly, but acting on the best current evidence available. While masks are important, I want to stress that they are only one of the many public health measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19 and protect the health of students, staff, and families.”

The Government has also announced that they will provide two reusable face masks for all students in Alberta. Additionally, school staff will receive one reusable face shield for their use in the schools. A mask must still be worn while wearing a face shield.

Mask use for kindergarten to Grade 3 students will continue to be optional. Mask use for younger children is a challenge due to difficulties with proper fit and compliance. In addition, evidence shows that children under 10 may be less likely than older children or adults to transmit COVID-19.

President of the College of Alberta School Superintendents and Superintendent of Golden Hills School Division, Bevan Daverne was pleased with the announcement.

“This announcement clearly demonstrates Alberta Education’s willingness to take the necessary steps to support the safety of staff and students. We appreciate their continued collaboration and support as we approach the beginning of a new school year.”

About 466,000 litres of hand sanitizer will also be distributed between all school authorities to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.