Most of those surveyed (86%) were uncomfortable with Scenario 1 of Alberta Government’s Return-to-School plan, with most (61%) preferring Scenario 2 (attending part-time in cohort groups with additional health measures; e.g., staggering the start and end times for the school day)
EPSB is implementing some of these additional health measures, but School Trustees have noted the need for reduced class sizes in order to make schools safe.
Those responding to our survey see an urgent need for reduced class sizes (88%), & most wanted classes capped at 15 (75%). Many noted that the size of the classroom itself dictates these limits in relation to health guidelines about keeping 2 metres apart indoors. 
Parent comment: “I am extremely uncomfortable with scenario 1. Classes are overcrowded and now they want kids to go back to near normal and zero spacing. No. Just NO.”
Parent comment: “I’m concerned about limitIng exposure to Covid-19 in schools. Smaller cohorts is key! Please look to other provinces for ideas/plans for reducing class sizes, etc.”
Judging from our survey, many Albertans will be relieved that masks will be mandatory for Grades 4-12 and for adults in schools. BUT, there are still lingering concerns.
One concern: “I agree with the mask wearing concept and think it important, BUT I believe that the teachers have enough to deal with already, without adding Mask policing.”
“If we could ensure masks could be used properly it would be worth using masks. However, that is not possible and the constant face touching plus often using dirty masks will actually increase child exposure to Covid”
Mask wearing “will be difficult for children and those with special needs,” especially those with sensory issues.
For young students “new teachers can be scary, especially if half their face is covered and it’s more difficult to detect facial expression (e.g., smiling). I also think it’ll be harder for students learning language if they cannot see their teachers’ mouth.”
Overall, the respondents in our survey clearly have serious concerns about safety regarding schools reopening.
Parent/School staff: “Staff and students safety is priority. Many sacrifices to this point but all for not with a new major outbreak from inadequate leadership and pushing everyone back to school without proper safety protocols. Staff and students are not disposable test rats.”
“This plan is putting children like mine who are severely immunocompromised at risk... And it's insane to me that our minister and Jason Kenney would both say "we expect to see an increase but at least we will have more accountability to track it" .this is my 7 years olds life.”
We'll have more to share in the days to come and you can look for a full public statement from RAD outlining our concerns with how the Government of Alberta is handling their school relaunch plan.
