Regina Public Schools are now moving to remote learning until at least April 26.

Spokesperson Terry Lazarou says in-person learning is obviously the most ideal scenario, but Regina medical health officers are recommending otherwise for now.

“What we are seeing in the Regina area in terms of COVID-19 and variants of concern spread gave us the indication that we need to take some action to further protect our students and our staff.”

This decision comes as the Saskatchewan Health Authority advised Regina and area school divisions to extend their remote learning for another two weeks after the spring break.

In a news release, Director of Education Greg Enion says it’s a decision the school division does not take lightly, and comes after consultation with parents, health officials and staff.

Lazarou says while some students thrive during remote learning, most struggle with the adjustment.

“During this extended period, we’re taking our staff who are not directly involved in teaching students and we’re asking them to identify, reach out, and engage with students and school families who we know are being challenged by this.”

The original plan was to return to school on April 12.

While it doesn’t seem likely at this time, Lazarou says students could return to in-person classes before April 26th if COVID-19 conditions improve.

Prairie Valley School Division made a similar announcement earlier this morning.