Mandatory staff vaccinations ‘not off the table’ says public school division

The vice-chair of the Regina Public School Division (RPSD) says there is an “ongoing conversation” on making vaccines mandatory for staff.

“It’s certainly not off the table,” said Tara Molson.

“We’re still gathering information on it. We’re listening to the Regina medical health officers on that one. But of course, any community support is helpful in making and guiding our decisions.”

Molson acknowledged that there very well may be resistance to the idea.

“Just like everybody in the community, there’s some that are for and some that are against,” she said.

Molson was speaking to the Greg Morgan Morning Show on Tuesday, one day after the school division released its back-to-school plan.

The plan differs from the guidance provided by the Ministry of Health, which does not require masking or vaccinations but merely recommends those measures. By contrast, RPSD will require every person in its 44 elementary schools to don a face covering, at all times, while in school and on the bus

Molson said the division received a lot of input from families, parents and students, which she said was welcomed. However, it was the advice of local public health officials that guided decisions.

“We have a combination of things that students will expect. Mask use, of course. We’re continuing with our advanced ventilation systems, cleaning and the hand hygiene protocols which students are very used to now,” she said.

“Social distancing when possible. Possible cohorting where possible.”

When dropping off children on the first day of class, parents will need to wear a mask if they enter the school. That’s a change from last year when parents and guardians had to stay on the sidewalk.

This year, schools will also be ready to deploy rapid tests. Many staff have watched a 10-minute training video to learn how to administer them, Molson said.

Despite the rules, Molson is glad to see a return to some semblance of a normal school year. Extracurricular activities, provided they can be done safely, will be offered.

“Obviously, any overnight trips, we’re not moving forward at this moment,” she said. “But yeah, it’s pretty exciting that we at least get to participate in the extracurriculars.”