UNA calls on Alberta Government to take stronger safety measures as schools reopen

United Nurses of Alberta is calling on the Alberta government to consider the need for additional measures to increase the safety of children and teachers during the reopening of Alberta’s schools.

In a letter sent to Education Minister Adriana LaGrange on August 26, 2020, UNA First Vice-President Danielle Larivee asked the minister to prioritize the health and well-being of children, their families, teachers and staff.

In the letter, Larivee recognized that a successful school reopening will be a key part of controlling the impact of COVID-19 on our communities and our economy going forward but the current plan for school reopening needs further enhancements to better protect the health and safety of Alberta’s students and teachers.

UNA is calling on the government to take action on reducing class sizes to ensure recommended physical distancing is possible and financially supporting school boards to meet the additional requirements that come with COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.

UNA is also calling on the government to support Alberta Health Services to ensure that adequate Registered Nurses and Registered Psychiatric Nurses are locally available to provide rapid support to schools in responding to COVID-19 related public health questions or concerns, as well as ensuring the mental health of our children and youth in light of the pandemic.

Related statements:

Alberta Federation of Labour: How can we avoid a “Cargill” in our classrooms?

Alberta Teachers' Association: ATA President Responds to Government Decision on School Re-entry Delay

CUPE Alberta: “Students and education workers would be safer going shopping”

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