The Return to School Plan presents the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development’s provincial expectations and standards for the safe operation of public schools during the COVID-19 pandemic. This plan has been created in consultation with Public Health. It is based on scientific evidence and expert opinions and should be used in the development of school operational plans. The objectives of the plan are to limit the potential spread of COVID-19 while also providing for a safe learning and working environment.  

The Department, school districts and schools will work collaboratively to support students and school personnel. Continued focus will be placed on ensuring consistent and transparent communication, providing opportunities for professional learning and encouraging innovation in the classroom.  

These standards may change depending on the status of the State of Emergency and the Mandatory Order. Depending on how the pandemic progresses in New Brunswick, these temporary constraints could be relaxed or become more stringent. This document is subject to change as new information on transmission and epidemiology becomes available