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By Pete McIntyre

Safety measure

Schools put on ‘hold and secure’ due to vaccine/mask protestors

Sep 17, 2021 | 4:55 PM

Schools in the Salmon Arm area were placed under “hold and secure” mode today as a result of some protestors opposed to vaccinations and masking.

School District 83 superintendent Donna Kriger sent a note home to parents Friday (Sept.17), saying while recent protests have been held outside their district office, the protestors did something this morning that was “completely unacceptable” by chosing to enter some schools in and around Salmon Arm.

“As a result, our schools will be placed in a ‘Hold and Secure’ to ensure the safety of both staff and students,” said Kriger in the note to parents obtained by Vernon Matters.

Students were not allowed to leave and enter the building the rest of the day.

An update sent to parents later Friday said doors to all schools will remain locked on Monday, Sept. 20.

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“We ask you to notify the school office if you require access to the building. School District 83 will be working with RCMP to ensure these protests are kept from all district property,” Kriger stated.

Kriger said the intent of the actions is to maintain safety for students and staff.