The Fort McMurray Public School Division is launching an online program for those who don’t return to school over the COVID-19 pandemic.

The FMPSD announced on Tuesday parents can now apply for their E-cademy+ program which will partner a student with a teacher to provide a high-quality learning experience during the 2020/21 school year.

The provincial government is expecting schools to reopen again in September, however, a final decision won’t be made until early August.

“This is our way of providing families with options as we prepare for this fall,” said Jennifer Turner, Superintendent of the FMPSD.

“We want you to know your child’s safety is an FMPSD priority, and with the E-cademy+ launch, we are putting this priority into action.

This program would be a step-up from the current online curriculum which has been providing only the core essential education.

It would be a full curriculum delivery format with the workload being similar to that of a regular school day.

“We encourage families to register either at their FMPSD school of choice, or this new program for students who are not able to return to in-person classes in the fall,” added Turner.

Greely Road Public School will look after students in Early Childhood Development Programs through Grade 6, cole McTavish High will host Grades 7-9, and Grade 10-12 will be covered by Westwood Community High School.

Parents can apply by visiting the FMPSD’s website.

Meanwhile, the Fort McMurray Catholic School District says they are still finalizing their plans for the next school year, but they will be providing several options for families.