I’ve heard criticism that Order 33-2020 was issued over the weekend. This timing was not to hide information from Albertans but to ensure school authorities knew about the order before it came into effect today (August 31). (1/8) https://open.alberta.ca/publications/cmoh-order-33-2020-2020-covid-19-response

However, I understand the concerns, especially as we move forward quickly to ensure accurate information for Albertans. Effective immediately, my goal will be to post new orders Monday through Thursday and I will share when they have been posted via social media. (2/8)

My team and I continue to work closely with school authorities to provide accurate information and evidence to support the back to school experience for children, parents, teachers and administrators. (3/8)

The order does not change my direction and reports that indicate otherwise are incorrect. Nothing has changed since mandatory masking was announced on August 4. (4/8) https://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm?xID=7295843B33620-E876-92BA-FCBA67A776AAE2FB

Mask use remains mandatory for staff and teachers in all settings outside seated classroom instruction where physical distancing of 2m cannot be maintained. Students will be required to wear masks in all shared and common areas including hallways and on the bus. (5/8)

To be clearest, paragraphs 13 – 14 of CMOH Order 33-2020 set out an exception to the mandatory masking requirements found in sections 6 – 12 for operators who are able to ensure that all students, staff members and visitors maintain a minimum of 2m of distance... (6/8)

...from every other person while attending an indoor location within a school or while being transported on a school bus. (7/8)

I look forward to speaking to this further during my availability today. I am confident that schools have the tools in place to support re-entry for children, parents, teachers and administrators across Alberta. (8/8)