The 2020-21 School Year

As part of the school re-entry plans outlined by the Government of Alberta, schools are currently operating within Scenario 1—resuming daily in-school classes with near-normal operations accompanied by specific health measures.

To support school re-entry, the Division developed the EIPS School Re-Entry Plan: A guide for students, staff and families that outlines the options available to families:

• in-school classes
• out-of-school learning for those who do not feel safe at school because of a pre-existing health issue or in the absence of a COVID-19 vaccine

Both options enable students to stay connected to their current school throughout their learning. Additional highlights of the plan include: 

• mandatory use of masks for all staff and students in kindergarten to Grade 12;
• enhanced cleaning and hygiene protocols;
• daily screening requirements;
• strict stay-at-home guidelines for individuals who feel unwell or have symptoms related to COVID-19;
• enforced public-health measures; and
• cohort and physical distancing strategies.

The goal is to ensure operations take place in the safest way possible. EIPS encourages all families to read through this plan to understand what the school experience will look like for the 2020-21 school year and make informed decisions for your family, both now and in the months to come.

The Division will continue to keep families informed throughout the year as the current situation continues to change. 

Additional Information

• EIPS Workplace Re-Entry Handbook: A how-to guide for EIPS staff
• COVID-19 for Albertans
• Chief Medical Officier of Health: Letter to families
• Self-Assessment for COVID-19
• Stay at Home Guide for Parents
• Handwashing Guidelines
• WHO Frequently Asked Questions

Mask resources
   - Back to School with a Mask (from the Stollery Children's Hospital and the U of A)
   - School with a Mask: For junior and senior high students (from the Stollery Children's Hospital and the U of A)
   - Government of Alberta: Mask wearing