BC closes first schools because of coronavirus transmission

Two BC schools have closed due to staff shortages connected to coronavirus infections, the first time any schools in the province have shut since the pandemic began.

“Schools are working with the families to ensure that educational opportunities continue,” Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry said during her Monday briefing.

The first school to shut was Mount Cheam Christian School in the Fraser Health region. Staff there have either been infected or exposed to COVID-19, forcing them to self-isolate. As a result there aren’t enough teachers to keep the school open, a Fraser Health spokesperson told Daily Hive.

Mount Cheam Christian School is scheduled to re-open on Monday, November 2.

The second school to shut was École de l’Anse-au-sable in Kelowna, where the province’s first in-school coronavirus outbreak was declared last week.

• See also:
  • BC declares first official school coronavirus outbreak
  • Dr. Henry cracks down on household gatherings with new health order
  • BC health officials announce 817 new coronavirus cases since Friday

The BC Teacher’s Federation said on Twitter that the school was experiencing a staffing shortage, making it difficult to keep operating.

Both schools will remain shut for 14 days, equivalent to one coronavirus incubation period.