NSTU welcomes release of back-to-school plan

August 23, 2021

NSTU welcomes release of back-to-school plan

(Halifax, NS) The NSTU says it is pleased that a back-to-school plan has been released, which families, teachers and students have been anxiously anticipating for weeks.  NSTU President Paul Wozney is also acknowledging the efforts of Premier Designate Tim Houston to communicate with the NSTU in recent days, which he hopes signals a new more collaborative approach from government.

“Premier Designate Houston said during his first press conference following the election that releasing the back-to-school plan was his top priority and he’s certainly fulfilled that commitment,” says Wozney. “I’ve already had one discussion with Mr. Houston since the election and I’m very optimistic about his proactive approach to engaging with Nova Scotia’s teachers and education specialists.”

The NSTU supports masking requirements for students across all grades and says it will be consulting with members about other aspects of the plan over the coming days.

“The NSTU has always felt that until this pandemic is over, every student that can, should be required to wear a mask in school to prevent the spread of COVID-19,” says Wozney. “It’s important this policy will continue moving forward.”

Wozney adds: “Our priority right now is to listen to our members to learn if there are additional ways the back-to-school plan can be strengthened. We hope to continue a positive dialogue with the Premier Designate and Public Health about necessary steps we can take to ensure classrooms are safe as we head into another school year.”