Mask rules extended to Vancouver students in kindergarten to Grade 3 after board vote

The Vancouver School Board is implementing its own mandatory mask requirement for students from kindergarten through to Grade 3.

The Vancouver School Board is implementing its own mandatory mask requirement for students from kindergarten through to Grade 3.

The mandate goes beyond the provincial health order from B.C.’s top doctor.

Trustee Barb Parrott presented the motion Monday night, rejecting the argument that young students are unable to wear face coverings.

“I dispute that assertion. We teachers teach and the parents teach children those ages to do lots of things, including crossing the street safely,” said Parrott in a public board meeting.

The motion was seconded by trustee Allan Wong and passed unanimously.

Wong said he’s hopeful that an expanded mandate will protect vulnerable students and their families.

“There has been a lot of stress per the letters that we've been receiving, from parents of students who when the students come home they're faced with vulnerable family members as well,” said Wong.