The 2021-2022 school year has kicked off and we have welcomed back over 4,500 students to our schools. There is a buzz of excitement in our hallways as students reconnect with their peers and their teachers. 

We have heard from some families who are upset our return to school plan changed from the original draft, and I want to provide some insight. 

The plan we released August 23rd is the plan we would have liked to have in place for the start of the school year. We wanted students to have few restrictions and to return to as ‘normal’ a school year as possible. 

However, in the last week leading up to our plan changing, the COVID situation in Saskatchewan and our region was accelerating. Our health partners recommended a stronger response was necessary to protect our students and staff. The safety of our students and staff is our top priority. By taking a stronger position on health measures, including requiring masks for students and staff in Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 6, we hope to avoid school closures and keep our students in the classroom. 

The provincial Education Act grants Boards of Education the authority to set the rules for schools. Even with the absence of a provincial health order, a Board can require students and staff wear masks. 

The Northwest School Division will continue to meet regularly with our health partners and local medical health officer. The current health situation in Saskatchewan and in our area is dynamic and our Return to School plan may change at any time, as needed. 

We understand not all families are comfortable with in-person learning at this time. Northwest School Division offers online learning for Kindergarten to Grade 12 through the Northwest Virtual School, and also supports Home-Based education. 

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we navigate the ongoing health situation. 

Glen Winkler, Board Chairperson 

Northwest School Division