Image Credit: File Photo/Global News

By Adam Donnelly

FACE COVERINGS REQUIRED

Kamloops-Thompson Teachers Association embraces new mask policy in schools

Aug 18, 2020 | 5:01 PM

KAMLOOPS — On Monday, the province announced masks would be mandatory for some staff and students when classes resume in September. Masks will be required on buses, in common areas, and when teachers and students find themselves outside of their learning group and unable to maintain a proper physical distance.

“There should be no stigma around mask-wearing,” Education Minister Rob Fleming told reporters Monday, as he announced masks would be mandatory in middle and secondary schools across BC come September.

On Tuesday, the president of the Kamloops-Thompson Teachers Association voiced her support for the new policy.

“We see it as just another added layer of protection for teachers and staff and students,” Laurel Macpherson tells CFJC Today.

Fleming says the plan is designed to protect students when they’re in situations where keeping their distance isn’t an option.

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“They can be a benefit where students are temporarily in a crowded area, as an additional layer of protection, in addition to all the other layers of protection built into the safety plan,” Fleming told reporters on Monday.

CFJC Today reached out to School District 73 for a comment, but no one from Administration was available today (Aug. 18). The District Parent Advisory Council declined an interview, and the local CUPE branch, who represents school support staff, didn’t return our call.

According to Macpherson, it’s been a busy summer trying to understand the details surrounding a return to classes in September. She also understands that nothing is guaranteed.

“We realize that there could be many changes before the end of August,” Macpherson says. “Before kids and teachers actually go back.”

For now, the KTTA remains ready to adjust their plans as more information becomes available.