Will Manitoba schools still require masks once the mandate is lifted?

File image of a classroom. (Narongchai Hlawprasert/Adobe Stock Photo/CNN)

The mask mandate in Manitoba is coming to an end on March 15, and this includes schools and child-care facilities.

However, even though the provincial mandate is ending, the province said people can still wear masks based on individual risks and preferences.

“Manitoba Education and Early Childhood Learning strongly recommends school and childcare facility officials follow the guidance of the Chief Provincial Public Health Officer, including removing mask mandates in indoor settings as the public health focus shifts to individual risk assessment,” Education Minister Wayne Ewasko said in a statement. “The department will continue to work with divisions and schools to address local concerns. As elected officials, school boards and trustees are charged with decision-making that addresses their local needs including if they choose to continue requiring the use of masks.”

CTV News Winnipeg reached out to several school divisions to see what their plans are for when the mask mandate ends on March 15:

• The Winnipeg School Division said it is strongly recommending that staff and students wear masks indoors and on school buses, but they will not be required.
• The Seven Oaks School Division said it will be guided by provincial health orders. The division will recommend mask use, but students and staff will have the choice whether to wear a mask;
• The Louis Riel School Division said education stakeholders have a meeting with Public Health this week, and will communicate with its community on the matter following this meeting; 
• The River East Transcona School Division said it is in communication with the province regarding how its school will be affected, and will provide more information later this week;
• The St. James-Assiniboia School Division said it is meeting with the province March 10, and will communicate plans after that date;
• The Pembina Trails School Division’s board said it will lift its mask requirement starting March 15, but masks will still be recommended for students, staff and visitors to the school; and
• The Division Scolaire Franco-Manitobaine said it will no longer require masks for students and staff, but it will be recommended.

- With files from CTV’s Devon’s McKendrick and Jon Hendricks.