Students will be able to return to the classroom Sept. 8

COVID- 19 has left some parents and teachers with concerns and questions for the upcoming school year. The pandemic had a dramatic impact on the way in which education was delivered in the K-12 system over the last two school years.

Last year, students attended classes in-person, online and some used a blended model of both at various times throughout the school years. Some Coaldale residents had their concerns, based on their kids going backto-school in the fall. “I have some regards in the upcoming school year based on what is the plan for students going back, will there be a mandate on masks?” said a resident of Coaldale.

Masks not being mandatory in classes, is another concern many parents have in the upcoming school year. “I won’t send my daughter in a classroom in these conditions,” said another resident of Coaldale. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has increased stress, fear and worry for many families. Concerns about sickness, financial stress and many other issues had been raised from COVID-19.

A recent report from The Globe and Mail stated Alberta Chief Medical Officer of Health Deena Hinshaw, who announced province-wide changes July 28, said it is not possible to element COVID- 19, “which means, we need to learn how to learn how to live with it.” Some school districts could potentially implement their own health measures, including mask mandates, cohering of students and enhanced cleaning.

But more meaningful measures, such as testing, tracing and isolating rest with the provincial government. “Since the start of COVID-19, there have been many concerns around the school system, but I believe the government and the school district have plans on keeping our kids safe during this time,” said another resident of Coaldale.

Some parents say their most significant concern with the return to back to- school is many kids’ social skills and building friendships, but even with that, some parents are excited to get their kids back-to-school and back to their routine.