The NDP’s education critic is cautiously optimistic about the school reopening plan announced last week.

Jim Dinn is the MHA for St. John’s Centre and is a former president of the Newfoundland and Labrador Teacher’s Association.

Dinn says he was pleased to hear a commitment from the government to work together to safely reopen schools while addressing the significant challenges to students, their families, teachers, and staff.

Dinn cautions however that more needs to be done.

He says clarity is needed on staffing allocations for custodial staff, teacher hires, and better busing options.

Dinn reiterates that smaller class sizes should be a priority strategy to help with physical distancing.