Critics say removal of student mask mandate in Alberta schools premature, playing politics

Some Edmonton parents say they are shocked, baffled and angry that the Alberta government is eliminating mask mandates in schools.

When the restriction ends next Monday, Alberta’s education minister says school boards will also lack the authority to adopt their own masking rules – a change from last year.

Starting Feb. 14, children aged 12 and under will be exempt from all masking requirements. In schools, masking requirements will be lifted for students of all ages.

On March 1, if hospitalization numbers continue to trend down, all remaining provincial school requirements, including cohorting rules, will also be lifted. 

The Tuesday announcement prompted calls from parents, teachers and Edmonton’s public