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Effective Jan. 10, 2022

Chinook’s Edge to implement temporary harm reduction procedure

Nov 11, 2021 | 7:02 PM

The Board of Trustees for Chinook’s Edge School Division has passed a motion in support of a temporary procedure which outlines expectations for all staff, contractors, practicum students and volunteers to either provide proof of full vaccination for COVID-19 or commit to regular rapid testing to verify they are COVID-19 negative.

The new temporary procedure is effective Jan. 10, 2022.

After considerable deliberation and consultation, officials say the Board supported administration’s recommendation for a harm reduction procedure.

Administrative Procedure 4-33 addresses the requirements which have been outlined by Occupational Health and Safety, Alberta Education, Alberta Health Services, and division insurance providers, among other provincial authorities, while focusing on respect for personal choice of staff.

“Throughout the pandemic, Chinook’s Edge has endeavoured to follow the guidelines from Alberta Health Services and Alberta Education. The steps we are taking as a division support what they are requesting,” said Superintendent Kurt Sacher.

“As the government continues to respond to the pandemic, Alberta Health and Alberta Education have issued a renewed call for all school authorities to implement a vaccination Protocol,” added Sacher. “Out of respect for individual choice, we are also providing the option for our staff to participate in regular rapid testing to verify they are COVID-19 negative. We have detailed plans in place to support our staff and to guide next steps, as we focus our efforts on having this new protocol in place by January 10.”

“The Board voiced deep appreciation for the work of the Chinook’s Edge team to maintain safe school environments and preserve in-person learning,” continued Sacher.

The new administrative procedure applies to all division employees, contractors, practicum students and volunteers. Vaccination or testing status will be confirmed through a confidential process. This procedure does not apply to students, parents, or visitors.

“The reality is that, despite numerous risk mitigation and health and safety measures, COVID-19 continues to put considerable strain on our schools and communities. This temporary procedure is our best response to the current public health crisis, so that we can put our strongest efforts into providing a safe working and learning environment for our students and staff,” concluded Sacher.