Saskatoon Public releases back to school plans prior to Sept. 1 start date

There’s an additional need on the class lists for the upcoming school year for parents.

Masks will be a part of the return to school for Saskatoon Public School Division — at least at the elementary level. On Monday afternoon, the division released its back to school plans shortly after both divisions in Regina released theirs.

Not much has changed since last year, according to Director of Education Shane Skjerven.

“In our Collegiates, from November on, the students attended only every second day … This year, students will be attending every day,” he told 650 CKOM shortly after the release of the plans.

Skjerven also noted that some of the cohorting has also been toned down for the upcoming year.

Masks will be mandatory for anyone entering an elementary school this year — that’s visitors, staff and students.

High schoolers don’t need to wear one, but they are strongly recommended. Skjerven said elementary schools are seeing basically, no change — with the exception of the toned back cohorting rules.

There will still be additional cleaning, sanitizing and staff and students will have to adhere to a screening process before they attend, daily.

Individuals who feel ill are still being asked to stay home. At recess and gym class, Skjerven said elementary students will be told to wear their masks whenever they are inside.

“Typically, in the fall, a lot of the gym classes will be outside. So, we do anticipate there will be an opportunity for students to take their masks off when they’re outside,” he explained.

“That would be the same for recess.”

Skjerven also offered a message for parents, heading into the school year — which starts Sept. 1 for all Saskatoon students.

“If you have any uncertainties … our school principals are well-equipped to answer them. We understand that this is a challenging time for everyone. Empathy, compassion and understanding is important for everyone,” he said.

“We’ll get through this together.”

Skjerven also mentioned that the plans may change, based on case levels and risk.