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

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 which was choosing to enter 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.

Global News said the protesters entered Ranchero Elementary, South Canoe Elementary and the Sullivan campus of Salmon Arm Secondary seeking to speak to the respective principals.

An update sent to parents later Friday said doors to all schools will remain locked on Monday, Sept. 20, which is an teacher’s Pro-D (in-service) day.

“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 that 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.