Under the updated health and safety guidelines, non-medical masks are required for all staff in all K to 12 schools and all students in middle and secondary schools in all indoor areas, including when they are in their learning groups. The only exceptions are when:
- They are sitting or standing at their seat or workstation in a classroom
- There is a barrier in place
- They are eating or drinking
Mask exemptions remain in place for students and staff who cannot wear a mask for health or behavioural reasons.
Even when wearing a mask, staff and students will still be required to maintain physical distance from people outside of their learning group.
Elementary school students are not required to wear masks and it remains a family decision.
If a student or staff member develops symptoms while at school, they must wear a mask while they are preparing to go home. Review COVID-19 mask use information from the BCCDC.