The St. James-Assiniboia School Division recognizes that good air quality is important for maintaining the health and safety of students and staff while providing an optimal learning and working environment.
School staff monitor Environment Canada's Air Quality Health Index on a regular basis throughout the school year and follow Manitoba Physical Activity Safety in Schools (MPASS) guidelines with regards to outdoor activities for students. This includes recess, outdoor learning, outdoor activities, as well as sporting events and practices. Specifically:
- When the Air Quality Health Index is Moderate (4-6), educators are expected to consider reducing or rescheduling strenuous outdoor activities for at-risk students if they are experiencing symptoms.
- When the Air Quality Index is High (7-10), strenuous outdoor activities are reduced or rescheduled for at-risk students, and educators will consider reducing or rescheduling strenuous outdoor activities for the general student population if they are experiencing symptoms.
- When the Air Quality Health Index is Very High (Above 10), strenuous outdoor activities are avoided for at-risk students, and reduced or rescheduled for the general student population, especially if they are experiencing symptoms.
During air quality events, staff keep an eye out for students experiencing symptoms, and act accordingly to reduce exposure. At-risk students have the option to stay indoors, and students that are not able to communicate their preferences will be kept indoors if needed out of an abundance of caution. Caregivers can expect staff to communicate any modifications to the school day or extracurricular activities as needed.
School staff also work in cooperation with SJASD Maintenance staff to help improve indoor air quality during smoke events, including closing windows and doors, and maintaining or modifying HVAC systems.
For more information on air quality, see: