Alberta premier defends rules on in-person class guarantee

EDMONTON – Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is defending new rules ordering schools to provide in-person learning during the current wave of viral illnesses.

Smith says the province is done treating every respiratory season with extreme measures. She says a clear, measured response is crucial for students and parents.

The new rules also don’t allow mandatory mask rules for students.

School boards have been asking for more direction as a slew of seasonal respiratory illnesses along with some COVID-19 cases have led to high classroom absentee rates and jammed children’s hospitals.