Based on the most recent Alberta Government COVID-19 update on Friday, September 3, 2021, Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools (RDCRS) is implementing the following adjustments to their school re-entry plan. These adjustments are based on the medical evidence shared from Alberta Health regarding masking in public indoor spaces as a way to mitigate transmission. Effective Tuesday, September 7, 2021:

● RDCRS requires that all staff, and students from Pre-Kindergarten - Grade 12, wear non-medical masks on school buses, and in all common areas in school buildings, or where physical distancing is not possible.

  • In classrooms if students are front facing and seated in rows with spacing, students can remove masks.
  • Individuals who are unable to wear a mask will require a doctor's note in alignment with Alberta Health CMOH Order 40-2021. Families will work with school administration on how this will apply to their child.
  • For staff and students, masks are not required when outdoors or during physical activity.
  • Rentals of facilities and schools will remain operational. Masking is mandatory for all rental groups.
  • School sports will continue with masking requirements in place for students who are off fields of play. All spectators and coaches will be required to wear a mask.

● Large gatherings of students including assemblies will be paused.

● Cohorting will not be required at this time, however schools will examine what cohorting may look like and how to operationalize if it becomes needed.

● Alberta Health Services is no longer providing close contact tracing. Schools are only made aware of cases by individuals self-disclosing. If schools are made aware of a positive case within a classroom, they will inform affected families. Please note our schools may not be aware of all cases of COVID-19.

Thank you for your patience and continued support as we continue to navigate through the COVID-19 pandemic.

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**With information provided by RDCRS Superintenent Kathleen Finnigan