COVID-19 Protocol Update- 2022-23 School Year
All remaining mandatory public health restrictions were lifted on June 14, 2022. While COVID-19-related hospitalizations in Alberta are stabilizing, hospitals throughout the country remain under strain due to staffing shortages. For the most part, it will be back to business as usual for the new school year. Due to the highly transmissibility of current Omicron BA.2 variant, however, the Division will continue best practices for the prevention and control of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses. This year, previous COVID -19 protocols have been adjusted to align with the current guidance document General guidance for COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses (June 2022).
COVID-19 PCR testing is available to Albertans with clinical risk factors for severe outcomes. Free rapid tests are available at some pharmacies.
Staff and students should continue to stay home when sick or with symptoms and, if testing positive for COVID-19, to follow the recommended isolation guidelines.
New and safer cleaning and disinfection products will be introduced to schools this year. These products, along with hand sanitizer, will continue to be readily available for use in classrooms and work areas.
While supplies last, Central office has an inventory of medical masks available for persons that need or wish to use them. Alberta Health recommends that people at risk of severe outcomes should wear medical masks when in settings with people outside of their household. Contact your principal or supervisor if you want masks or have other questions or concerns.
Elk Island Public Schools will continue to keep staff and families advised of any changes in protocols. For further information, visit COVID information for Albertans.
COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses
General guidance for COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses (June 2022)
Reportable Diseases
Cleaning Guidelines for Infection Control
Cleaning Guide for Infection Control
Head Lice Information Page