Rocky View Schools (RVS) has finalized the details surrounding proof of vaccination within their facilities.

On October 12 the division amped up its COVID protocols and announced that a mandatory vaccination policy would be coming for staff, parents/guardians and school volunteers.

A timeline has now been established and according to a release from RVS Superintendent Greg Luterbach, teachers, staff and volunteers over the age of 18 have until the start of the new year to transition.

"In alignment with the Government of Alberta’s request of the school system, beginning January 3, 2022, RVS will require proof of COVID-19 immunization or a negative rapid COVID-19 test result for all adults who are NOT RVS students to enter our schools or facilities," explains Luterbach.

He goes on to say that the division views the mandatory vaccination policy as an additional layer to protect the 26,600+ students and 2,600+ staff in their care.

The division has updated its Administrative Procedures (AP) to include  AP 173 – COVID-19 Hazard Reduction. 

Both the Calgary Board of Education (CBE) and the Calgary Catholic School Division (CCSD) have implemented similar requirements.

The CCSD says it will have its system ready later this month and CBE has given a deadline of December 17.

Once classes resume after the winter break, adults entering RVS facilities will need to have their QR CODE  handy as well as a piece of government-issued ID. They also have the option of providing a negative COVID rapid test taken within 72 hours.

Effective January 3, 2022, anyone over the age of 18 attending any school or sports events or concerts on RVS property will need to comply with the heightened measures.

Although the division requires staff and volunteers to have proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test, this requirement does not apply to students.  

Luterbach says that this isn't intended to be a permanent procedure.

"This administrative procedure is temporary and will be re-evaluated when the government and medical authorities no longer support the identification of COVID-19 as a workplace hazard and/or a minimum of every six months, or as deemed necessary, " explains Luterbach.

Luterbach acknowledges that this requirement will be met with mixed reactions, and he reiterates that remote options will still be available for parents to engage with RVS teachers and school administration.