Mask mandate in schools extended into May

When students return to the classroom following the Easter long weekend, they'll need to continue to wear masks.

The province is sticking with the mandate for students, staff, outside service providers, volunteers and visitors in schools and on school buses until at least the May long weekend.

Originally, the plan was to have masks be optional following March Break, but when the Nova Scotia Pediatric Pandemic Advisory Group -- comprised of eight leading pediatric doctors -- asked for an extension of the policy, it was announced they'd stick around for a few more weeks.

Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development, Becky Druhan, said mandatory masks will be reassessed as we get closer to May 20.

The province will continue to hand out masks and rapid tests kits to staff and students at public schools as needed.