School divisions in Winnipeg release plans for return to classes amid coronavirus pandemic The province had previously refused to mandate masks, instead saying it preferred to “strongly recommend” them.Pallister said the change came after listening to “thousands” of parents on the issue.A few weeks ago, Manitoba’s education minister and chief medical officer of health unveiled the government’s practice guidelines and protocols around the return to school, slated for Sept.
8, but each division was given until last week to post their individual plans for reopening.Pallister said the province would pay for the cost of schools’ masks.