Students in New Brunswick will return to a school environment similar to the one they left in June according to the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development.

The department’s Director of Communications Danielle Elliott outlined a brief plan for fall in a statement to our newsroom on Thursday.

“While not required for school attendance, the department will continue to encourage individuals who choose to wear a mask, based on their level of risk or concern to do so,” noted Elliott.

“We will continue to work with districts to ensure schools remain a welcoming, supportive and respectful environment for everyone.”

The Department of Education said it will continue working with the Department of Health and the Chief Medical Officer of Health to monitor the pandemic throughout the year and will adjust any practices as required.