A final decision is expected tomorrow on whether or not K-12 students in the province can expect to return to classes on Monday—but rapid tests will start rolling out to families and staff starting today.

An update was supposed to happen today, but it has been pushed to Thursday along with the latest live COVID briefing.

Students have been learning online since the new year began after an outbreak of Omicron cases moved the entire province into Alert Level 4. Currently, the target date for students and staff to return to school is Monday, January 24.

English School District CEO Tony Stack says schools have plans together to help with the distribution of kits, and families should be notified on how the kits will be distributed. He understands that not all families have the ability to travel to pick up kits so alternate plans may be in place.

He says in some cases, kits might be distributed along the usual bus routes.

Families are being asked to keep their kits in a safe place until 72 hours before schools are set to reopen.

Students will be required to take two rapid tests before the return to school—one on the Friday before in-person learning resumes, and one on the morning of the first day of classes. If both tests are negative, you’re good to go. If even one is positive, then you must isolate, stay home, and follow public health guidelines.

Meanwhile, many schools have already announced their rapid test distribution plan to families. Notifications went out last night in many areas outlining the plan for pick-up of tests and offering alternatives to those who are unable to travel to get them.