School exposures are still in effect for 15 schools in the Central Okanagan area.

Data from Interior Health鈥檚 (IH) list of exposures reveal that out of 44 schools in SD23, 12 schools still have potential exposure events, with the earliest being Sept. 27.

Eight out of the 12 schools listed are middle and secondary schools. The remainder of the exposure events in public schools happened in elementary schools.

Three schools outside of SD23 also have listed potential exposure events. Ecole De L鈥橝nse-Au-Sable, 琉璃神社 Christian School and Okanagan Christian School have noted exposures.

A full list of local schools impacted is available at or on the map below.

When asked about the school exposures, SD23 superintendent Kevin Kaardal said the district has health and safety protocols to protect students, staff and teachers. Kaardal also said that most schools are still safe places to be in, especially since staff and many students are vaccinated.

鈥淲e will continue to operate on the advice of our medical officers, and families that are affected by these exposures have been contacted. We isolate those that are at risk of transmission,鈥� said Kaardal.

鈥淧otential exposure events have been going on since this pandemic started because transmissions occur outside of schools and those asymptomatic adults or kids arrive at school,鈥� Kaardal added. 鈥淭hose who are sick are asked to stay home, so school remains safe places to be safer than most places in the community.鈥�

All students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 are required to wear masks in B.C. schools as of Monday, Oct. 4.

READ MORE: Most Canadians say school children and staff should wear masks: survey

READ MORE: COVID-19 vaccine registration open for kids aged 5-11, say B.C. health officials

paula.tran@kelownacapnews.com
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