St. James Assiniboia School Division purchasing masks for schools

A Winnipeg school division says they have made a unique purchase of students and staff.

The Trustee for St. James Assiniboia School Division (SJAD), Nicole Bowering, shared on Facebook that middle and senior years students will be provided with masks in the fall.

"SJASD has purchased 2 reusable face masks for each student in middle years and senior years. Students are recommended to wear face masks during the school day if physical distancing is not possible," she writes online.

Bowering adds that staff will be given two reusable masks and a face shield.

The Trustee says the masks are recommended but has not stated that it is mandatory. She adds that more information will be shared with parents on August 17.

"Rest assured that we have great concern for all our staff and students and will be doing our utmost to keep everyone safe. This announcement is only one small part of how we will work to keep everyone safe."

To date, the Government of Manitoba and the Chief Public Health Officer have not made masks mandatory in schools.