State of emergency declared. See Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) updates and check for location, program and service closures, cancellations and changes.

The best place for children to learn is in a safe and supportive environment surrounded by their teachers, school staff and friends.

This year, students and staff will return to school in an environment that is like previous years but with masks to start and core public health measures in place.

These core measures include our best layer of protection, full vaccination for as many as possible, staying home if you are feeling sick, as well as frequent hand hygiene and sanitizing of high-touch surfaces.

As Nova Scotia moves into Phase 5, we will transition to masks being optional. Schools will begin working with students and staff to prepare for this transition and create safe spaces for those who wish to continue to wear a mask.

The school routine will look more normal this year, with a return to music, band and field trips. 

All school sports will resume. Gyms will be open to community groups. And students and staff will once again be able to gather in cafeterias and participate in food programs as per previous years. Parents and guardians will be allowed to visit schools if they follow public health measures.

What won't change is our commitment to Nova Scotia's Inclusive Education Policy. 

There will continue to be a focus on equity by supporting students who are historically marginalized and racialized (African Nova Scotian and Mi'kmaw students) or who come from other groups that have been traditionally under-represented and under-served.

This includes but is not limited to those struggling with poverty, students with disabilities, newcomers, and 2SLGBTQIA+ students.

Our schools have remained safe throughout the pandemic and have not been a significant source of transmission. This plan outlines how Nova Scotia public schools will adapt to 'living with COVID-19', creating a safe and supportive learning environment for everyone.

With this support and guidance, Nova Scotia students will safely return to class in September.

Icon Public Health Guidance

Public Health Guidance for Schools

What is Public Health’s advice and expectations for school this year?

Public Health Guidance
Icon Returning to Class

Returning to Class for 2021-22

What will the year look like in our schools and classrooms?

The Plan for the School Year
Icon resources for families

Resources

Helpful resources including videos, posters and other documents.

Resources
Icon resources for educators

Information for Teachers

Guiding and supporting documents for curriculum and program needs.

Teacher Information

Plan Updates

Updated COVID-19 Public Health Guidance for Before and After School Programs has been posted
Read more
The plan for the 2021-22 school year was created with the input of thousands of voices - direction and guidance from public health officials, advice from physicians at the IWK Health Centre, feedback from the Nova Scotia Teachers Union, the Public School Administrators Association of Nova Scotia, support staff unions and teachers, survey results from parents, guardians and teachers, and recommendations from other key partners.