There is a lot to learn in a short period of time, but the Ministry of Education and public health officials have released parent information packages to be distributed prior to the first day of school on September 8th, which includes what will happen if a case of COVID-19 is confirmed in a school. Education Minister Gord Wyant says the packages have general background on the plan and guidance on how to prepare.

If someone tests positive, all teachers, staff and parents of students in the same classroom will be contacted. Those in the school who aren’t considered close contacts will be advised to self-monitor for symptoms. Public Health will advise on any further actions. But if a second person contracts the virus in a school, an outbreak will be declared. Wyant says this doesn’t mean an automatic closure.

And, if there is a second positive case confirmed in a classroom, that class will receive non-classroom arrangements for 14 days until Public Health says it’s safe to return to school.

Teachers and school staff now have priority access to testing for COVID-19 and throughout the school year, voluntary testing with parental consent, will be made available in schools. Education Minister Gord Wyant says drive-thru testing sites will be opening soon in Saskatoon and Regina, and anyone in the province can access them. You won’t need a referral, only a valid health card. More information on the location and opening dates will be announced in the coming days.

Click here for the full plan: Safe Schools Plan Parent Package – Aug. 27