CBE says employees must be fully vaccinated by mid-December

An empty school classroom is shown. (Getty Images)

CALGARY -

The Calgary Board of Education (CBE) announced on Tuesday it will be requiring employees be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by Dec. 17. 

The CBE said the requirement, made with the support from the board of trustees, applies to all employees, volunteers and CBE partners. 

It also applies to all contracted service providers and tenants in CBE buildings. 

"Throughout the pandemic, the CBE has acted to protect the health and safety of students, employees and the wider community while prioritizing in-person learning," a statement from the CBE said. 

"We want to minimize disruptions in schools and give all students the opportunity to participate fully in their learning." 

The CBE said there will be a transition period to give people time to declare their vaccine status and to comply with the new requirements. 

"Dates for vaccine status declaration will be determined once the necessary processes are in place to collect and manage this information," the CBE said. 

"Additional information is forthcoming, including details on vaccine status declaration dates, the short-term process for rapid testing for staff and specifics on exemptions under human rights legislation." 

When asked what consequences will be in place for employees who refuse to be vaccinated, the CBE said the following:

"The CBE’s approach to the policy will be consistent with other public sector employers — with a focus on education, the option for regular proof of a negative COVID-19 test instead of vaccination, and options for leave without pay.

"Disciplinary measures may also be considered if warranted. We will continue to consult with union groups as we finalize the policy and its implications for staff."

While the CBE is also encouraging eligible students be vaccinated against COVID-19, it is not a requirement. 

The CBE's Board of Trustees advocated for a provincial vaccine mandate for the education sector staff in a Sept. 17 letter to the minister of education. 

Last month, the Alberta Teachers Association (ATA) came out in support of vaccine mandates for teachers and staff.