Communiqué: Lifting of Restrictions on March 14, 2022
Last week, the province announced the lifting of all provincial restrictions related to COVID-19 and the end of the Mandatory Order effective March 14, 2022. The decision was made by the government in consultation with Public Health.
As a result, when schools reopen after the March Break, school staff and students will no longer be required to wear masks, socially distance, or self-isolate.
The New Brunswick Teachers’ Federation (NBTF) would like to provide the following clarifications:
Masks
All school staff can choose to continue to wear masks, which will be provided by the employer upon request. Districts, schools, and classrooms can no longer enforce the wearing of masks.
Isolation/Testing
As of March 14, 2022, education staff will no longer be required to test or self-isolate. In the event you do not feel well and are unable to report to work, you will be required to use your sick leave.
Vaccination Status
We are still awaiting confirmation from government regarding the employment status of unvaccinated employees.
Student Absences
When a student is absent for medical reasons, instructional material will be provided in accordance with pre-pandemic policies or practices. Should students choose or their parents decide they will not attend school, teachers will not be required to provide instruction or materials.
Winter School Plan
It is the understanding of the NBTF that a revised plan will be released at the end of the week by the employer.
The lifting of the restrictions on March 14th will be a welcome step for many, while others will need more time to adjust to the pace at which restrictions are being removed. As a result, I would ask that you continue to respect the personal decisions of your colleagues who will make choices based on their own comfort levels regarding their own personal health and safety, and, in doing so, guarantees your own personal choices will also be respected.
Enjoy the March Break and take care.
Kerry Leopkey
NBTF Executive Director