The B.C. Teachers’ Federation is calling for smaller class sizes and stricter face mask regulations when schools start up again next month.
In a release, the union stated that many people are worried that the government has not done enough to ensure the safety of teachers, students, and families, especially in light of the sharp rise in new COVID-19 cases in the province recently.
The government’s learning groups concept will work for contact tracing, but the plan does not include adequate preventative measures within the learning groups.
In a statement to CBC, Education Minister Rob Fleming stated a number of the issues raised by the BCTF have been addressed. They will continue to work with teachers, parents, support staff, and education partners on the steering committee on the safe restart plan.
Earlier this month, Fleming announced that students will start returning to school on September 10 and will be sorted into learning groups – clusters of 60-120 students that are meant to allow for social interaction while limiting the potential for widespread COVID-19 transmission.
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Learn more about face masks and how to stay safe by enrolling in a mask fitting test which is a requirement for many workspaces and schools or the available masks for sale by visiting our face mask sale page.
Our courses maintain social distancing measures with reduced class sizes to maintain the minimum 2 meters apart along with the mandatory use of face masks and regular temperature checks. The venue of the courses undergo regular, enhanced cleaning and disinfection routines.
For more information about face masks, check out these sources:
https://www.bbc.com/news/health-51205344
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/in-depth/coronavirus-mask/art-20485449