Photo: Government of Alberta

By Shaun Penner

In-School Classes cancelled

In-school classes cancelled for remainder of school year, no decision yet for September

May 6, 2020 | 12:08 PM

Alberta Education Minister Adriana LaGrange confirmed what Premier Jason Kenney stated last week, in that in-school classes are cancelled for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year and at-home learning will continue for May and June of this year.

Minister LaGrange made the announcement Wednesday morning at a press conference in Edmonton, where she also detailed three possible scenarios that the province is looking at as part of its school re-entry plan, which could happen as early as the beginning of the 2020-2021 school year in September.

Those scenarios include:

• Scenario one: Normal school operations are able to resume.
• Scenario two: Schools are partially re-opened, with some level of restrictions (i.e. PPE must be worn, social distancing is followed).
• Scenario three: Teacher-directed at-home learning continues.

LaGrange emphasized that these scenarios were just three of the possible scenarios the province was reviewing, and discussions with school authorities and partners will continue as a comprehensive re-entry strategy is developed.

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“I want to be clear at this time: no decisions have been made on any aspect of the re-entry plan. These items are only three of many, many considerations before us.”

She adds that any re-entry strategy will need to be signed off by Alberta Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Deena Hinshaw, and must align with the province’s relaunch strategy. The possibility of schools re-opening is included in stage two of Alberta’s relaunch plan.

LaGrange also said she understands that the current situation has been difficult for many parents, especially for those who have children with special needs, which 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 shared 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.”

(With files from David Opinko)