All schools, depending on grade level will focus on providing as much in-person learning as possible.
That’s according to the Reopening Schools Safely plan, recently outlined by the Government of the Northwest Territories. The plan outlines the full extent of the COVID-19 health and risk measures outlined by the department of health and social services to resume education in the NWT.
“The upcoming 2020-2021 school year will not be a return to normal for educational staff and students,” as stated in the plan.
The plan prioritizes starting the school year on time, maintaining financial support for programs while seeking equity across regions, and supporting grades junior kindergarten to grade 12. Ensuring a fair and balanced approach to this newly blended model of education.
Classrooms will appear different this fall with separated desks, the use of masks, and new rules to enforce hygiene and social distancing.
Students will be given the option to do learning in shifts, with some students attending class in the morning and others in the afternoon, or on alternating days to limit the risk of exposure.
“Infection control, staggered classes, and physical distancing measures will help the learning cycle get going again while protecting from the spread of COVID-19,” says Dr.Kami Kandola, chief public health officer.
The office of the chief public health officer is working on finalizing and confirming each school’s individual reopening plan.
