Following the provincial government’s direction, Black Gold School Division (BGSD) is implementing the Guidance for School Re-entry – Scenario 1 from Alberta Education and the Chief Medical Officer of Health to support the safe re-entry to schools in September 2020.

“Our top priority is the health and safety of our students and staff,” said BGSD Board of Trustees Chair Devonna Klaassen. “Wherever possible, having students physically attend school is recommended, and the Division is doing all that we can to minimize risks. We want to reassure parents that our schools are meeting the Alberta Health guidelines in providing a safe environment for student learning. Having said this, we do recognize that it will take a collaborative effort to keep everyone safe.”

The Province has stated that the decision to allow in-school learning with public health measures in place weighs the risks of prolonged school closures on students’ educational experience and overall well being against the risk of COVID-19 outbreaks.

“We recognize that each Black Gold family has unique needs, and we are aware that not all families are comfortable with their children returning to in-school classes in September,” said BGSD Superintendent of Schools Bill Romanchuk. “While we are offering in-school classes for students in September, we remain committed to providing an educational program for all students that best supports them through different program delivery choices – whether in the classroom, through distance learning or homeschooling.”

The Black Gold School Division 2020-21 School Re-entry Plan is geared towards parents/guardians, students and staff to ensure they are informed of the latest expectations. It includes detailed protocols on screening, cleaning, hygiene and disinfection, physical distancing, bus transportation, staggered school year start dates, and much more.

All Black Gold schools have been given these guidelines to prepare for Scenario 1, and are making the necessary adjustments based on their unique school community and the physical layout of each school.

On August 5, 2020, parents/guardians will be asked to declare –  via survey – as to which learning experience is best for each of their children and in doing so, make a five-month (one semester) commitment until the end of January 2021. This will enable the School Division to deploy teachers, resources and student supports as needed for effective programming.

Please note that this plan may be updated in response to changes directed by Alberta Education. Any changes in the school re-entry scenario will be determined by Alberta Education and Alberta Health Services with information on local school-based and zone​ information. BGSD remains in communication with the Alberta Government and will continue to follow its advice.