The province's announcement for Phase-two starting June 1 included information on schooling outside the classroom.

School Divisions had until May 29 to submit their plans on how they would open up their schools within the government's restrictions.

Western School Division Superintendent Stephen Ross, says the division's goal is to get to the safest normal they can.

"It's going to allow us to bring some students in throughout the month to reconnect with them. The teaching piece of the new learning will continue remotely, but there will be an opportunity for kids to come into school to get one on one help, tutoring, and year-end assessments."

 He adds the assessments will articulate how they've done for the year and set them up for next year.

According to the province, occupancy must be based on maintaining physical distancing of two metres/six feet in individual rooms, with no more than 25 people per room. Limited access to school facilities will continue to be permitted in settings where physical distancing can be maintained, including:

  • Teachers and students may meet in small or one-on-one settings to conduct student assessments, provide clinical support, administer recovery and remedial learning plans, and provide therapeutic services;
  • Day camps and summer programming may operate.
    Scheduled students can access school Wi-Fi and computer equipment;
  • Counselling access and emergency phone access may be provided for students;
  • The use of outdoor facilities and playgrounds is encouraged.

"Every division has different circumstances they're dealing with," says Ross, "and in some ways, we're fortunate we're small and local here and have a lot of access, and there are some things we are hoping to do. I think many students are looking forward to connecting with staff and their student colleagues, but in a safe and carefully planned way."

WSD's limited access school plan is on its website, and Ross says schools are creating even more detailed procedures and guidelines for their buildings.

He adds they're also looking to begin some transitional activities. In the past, WSD has held transition or move-up days in June, where students get to meet some of their classmates and next year's teacher. Ross says they will see if this is possible but are hoping there will be an opportunity later in the month.