Elementary schools to stagger student entry on Sept. 1 and Sept. 2

Lethbridge School Division will stagger student entry in our elementary schools (K-5) over Tuesday, Sept. 1 and Wednesday, Sept. 2.
Having a smaller number of students in our schools for the first two days will give staff, students and parents a greater opportunity to navigate the new health protocols.
With smaller numbers of students in their schools, teachers will be better able to help students understand hygiene protocols, mask use and so forth. It also gives teachers time to provide more individual attention for students who may be feeling anxious. Directing parents and students to the right locations will also be easier with fewer students for the first two days.
To make this work, schools will have two start days, and will repeat the same procedures on both days.
On Tuesday, Sept. 1 (the first day of school), all elementary students whose last names begin with the letters A-M will come to school for the full school day.
On Wednesday, Sept. 2, all elementary students whose last names begin with the letters N-Z will come to school for the full school day.
On Thursday, Sept. 3 and Friday Sept. 4, all students will come to school.
This staggered start will ALSO include students who are at-home learners. This will give the elementary at-home learning teachers time to get to know their students in a smaller cohort, and will help students and families get familiar with the routine of at-home learning.