Elementary students are returning to classes in Tumbler Ridge, about two weeks after the fatal mass shooting that saw an 18-year-old shooter kill eight people before turning the gun on herself.
The Peace River South school district says students will have shortened days for the rest of the week, and regular schedules will resume next Monday.
Classes for secondary students, however, remain out, although the district says they will head back to school Friday for one block. There is a tentative plan for them to return next week from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The district says a security company has been contracted to maintain a perimeter around the elementary school grounds, with additional measures such as cameras slated to be installed.
“I applaud the school district and local community leadership for supporting each member of this school community’s unique circumstances, whether it’s returning to in-person learning, online learning or supporting individuals to step away and continue to heal,” said Lisa Beare, Minister of Education and Child Care.
Victim Services will be at both locations with their dogs to aid in this transition.
With files from The Canadian Press