Provincial COVID-19 Health & Safety Guidelines for K-12 Updated Feb 2021
Summary of Key Updates
• COVID-19 Safety Plan Reviews (p.6) new section on expectations of schools/districts, key focus areas and the new BCCDC COVID-19 School Health & Safety Checklist.
• Supportive School Environments (p.8) new section.
• Learning Groups (p.9) – updated language to align with current BCCDC guidance and additional guidance on learning group composition changes and size exemption.
• Physical Distancing (p.13) updated language to align with current BCCDC guidance.
• Staff Only Spaces (p.15) new section with guidance for adult-to-adult interactions.
• Working with Students with Disabilities/Diverse Abilities (p.16) recommended strategies when working with students who are deaf or hard of hearing; PPE for staff and students.
• School Gatherings and Events (p.17) updated guidance on staff gatherings and examinations/assessments.
• Cleaning and Disinfecting (p.20) updated guidance regarding water fountains, shared manipulatives and toys, and paper-based products.
• Visitor Access/Community Use (p.22) measures to reduce crowding and support contact tracing; mask requirements for visitors and volunteers.
• Illness & Self-Assessment Policies and Protocols (p.24, p.49) updated language to align with current BCCDC and WorkSafeBC guidance; link to new K-12 Health Check app.
• Personal Protective Equipment (p.28) updated guidance regarding mask use, and PPE for delivery of health services in schools.
• General Ventilation & Air Circulation (p.31) guidance regarding ventilation system breakdown/power outage, opening windows in schools with HVAC systems.
• Emergency and Evacuation Drills (p.32) new section.
• Food/Culinary Programs and Food Services (p.35) updated language to align with current BCCDC guidance.
• Fundraisers (p.37) new section.
• Music Programs (p.38) updated guidance re physical distancing and mask use.
• Physical and Health Education/Outdoor Programs (p.39) updated guidance regarding physical contact, high-intensity exercise and use of shared equipment.
• School Libraries/Learning Commons (p.41) updated guidance regarding paper-based products; link to BC Teacher-Librarians Association guidance.
• School Sports (p.41) updated guidance regarding physical contact, high-intensity sports and spectators.