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Powell River teachers appreciate mask-wearing students

British Columbia Teachers’ Federation calls for added protection
Mask wearing students
Getty image.

BC’s teachers have called on parents to support a culture of mask wearing in schools and Powell River’s teachers acknowledge the efforts being made in School District 47.

“Teachers in Powell River really appreciate how responsible so many students are being about wearing masks, and we are all safer with that added layer of protection,” said Powell River and District Teachers’ Association president Izi Loveluck.

In an open letter to parents from British Columbia Teachers’ Federation (BCTF) president Teri Mooring, she stated that BC’s teachers care deeply about students.

“We are all working incredibly hard to make sure they are safe and receiving the best education possible during this terrible pandemic,” stated Mooring. “Nothing about this school year has been easy and all of us are feeling stress and anxiety. We’re worried about COVID-19 affecting our students, our families, and ourselves.

“Making sure our schools and classrooms are safe for our children and yours has been the top priority for us all. Now, as BC is gripped by this surging second wave of the coronavirus, we’re reaching out to you for some help.”

Mooring stated that while masks are not mandatory at all times in schools, BCTF is hoping parents can help teachers support a culture of mask wearing. 

“Some schools have already taken this step,” stated Mooring. “The school community has come together and made mask wearing normal and expected. It really helps everyone in our schools feel safer. We need to be doing all we can to ensure we keep each other safe. No one wants to bring COVID-19 home to their families.

“We know there are students and staff members who for various reasons can’t wear masks. There are some learning situations where masks aren’t appropriate. That’s all okay. Our school communities have a lot of experience making sure people are included and treated with kindness and respect.”

Mooring stated that by parents talking to their children about wearing their masks in school, they can help create that respectful culture of mask wearing. 

“BCTF members, your children’s teachers, are committed to providing our students with supportive and enriching learning environments,” stated Mooring. “We also need them to be safe. Please help make that happen. We encourage you to talk to your children and encourage them to wear masks.”