Lethbridge Collegiate Institute. (Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

Three scenarios planned for K-12 classes this fall depending on COVID-19 restrictions

May 6, 2020 | 12:23 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – While the Ministry of Education is looking into a few different scenarios for how the 2020 fall semester will take place depending on how COVID-19 restrictions change between now and then.

Education Minister Adriana LaGrange says she would prefer to see Scenario 1 be adopted, which would see normal school operations with in-person classes resume.

Scenario 2 would have in-person classes make a return but with some restrictions. These could potentially include everyone being required to wear personal protective equipment such as face masks.

Under Scenario 3, online program delivery would continue in a manner similar to the way it has been conducted in the last couple of months.

“I want to be clear at this time, no decisions have been made on any aspects of the re-entry plan,” says LaGrange. “These items are only three of many, many considerations before us. Any proposals that ultimately appear in the re-entry plan will be subject to approval by the chief medical officer of health, will be aligned with Alberta’s relaunch strategy, and will honour collective agreements.”

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A first draft will be given to school officials to review first and will later be presented to the public with whatever decision has been made.

Either way, in-person classes are cancelled for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year.

The Minister is thanking teachers, students, and parents for quickly adapting to online course delivery.

She says 91 per cent of public, separate, francophone, and chartered school boards are offering online learning for their students.

53 per cent of teachers are emailing homework to their students while the other 47 per cent are sending assignments in the mail.

School authorities and the ministry have provided 60,000 devices to students, including “laptops, Chromebooks, tablets, and iPads.”

The majority have been allocated to students who do not have access to the proper technology, have complex needs, or are high school students.

“Our education system and their communities have come together to support our childrens’ education and I cannot thank everyone enough for stepping up and demonstrating true Alberta spirit during this very very difficult and challenging time.”

LaGrange says she understands that the current situation has been difficult for many parents, especially for those who have children with special needs. That is why Alberta Education has created a helpline.

“This will be managed by staff at Alberta Education who can assist with answering questions or directing parents to resources provided by their school authorities.”

The helpline can be reached 780-422-6548, toll-free starting with 310-0000, or by sending an email to studentsupport@gov.ab.ca

The Minister also wanted to share a message with students who are graduating this year.

She says she understands their disappointment that graduation ceremonies have been cancelled and believes those feelings are valid.

“I want to stress that, while this situation is not ideal, you should be proud of all that you have accomplished. You have come far throughout your 12 years of education and you have a lot to be proud of. There will come a time where you can celebrate with friends and family, but for now, I just ask that you reflect on these 12 years and do not undervalue this great achievement of yours.”

“I am proud of you, your province is proud of you, and I know that your teachers, your friends, and your family are proud of you.”