Plans for the next school year in the Battle River School Division (BRSD) are moving forward.
At the trustees meeting June 11, an update was provided on the progress division staff have made to prepare for all three re-entry options the province has come up with.
Alberta Education is supposed to decide by Aug. 1 on which option — students return to classes as normal, students alternate between classroom and online, or remain in full time online learning — will be used come September.
While the goal is to have everyone in a classroom setting, according to recent statements from the Education minister, trustees were told it is certainly possible that the other two options could be put in place.
BRSD superintendent Rita Marler outlined that staff have been working on plans for each scenario and reminded trustees that even if classes resume, it will not be the same. She added extra cleaning and sanitizing measures in place and other routines, such as lunch or recess, will be adjusted into smaller groups.
The plans also include input received from a survey of parents, students and staff.
Marler also stated more details will be shared once the province formally determines which model will be used.
Trustees will next meet on Aug. 27 for their organizational meeting.
Bus changes
Trustees were told a transportation review is underway for next year with a possible reduction in routes in two areas. They were also told to expect a report this fall from Alberta Education as they continue their thorough review of bus service in the province.
Other revisions
The annual employee recognition banquet in the fall, to celebrate milestones and retirements, has been postponed until further notice and trustees will make a final decision on possible international trips slated for the 2021 spring break later this fall.
Trustees did decide to continue welcoming international students come fall, but only as long as Canada’s borders are open and students can quarantine for the required 14 days before school begins.
However, one item that BRSD staff have been unable to complete, due to the ongoing uncertainty, is any progress with the possible agriculture program at Round Hill School. It is anticipated discussions will resume in the near future.