With the establishment of new health guidance for schools, Alberta students can expect a closer to normal school year when they return to classes this fall.

"Thanks to the power of vaccines, and the dedication of Albertans, parents, students, and school staff can look forward to a normal school year this September," said Education minister Adriana LaGrange at a morning news conference.

With the health measures established and climbing vaccination rates, there will be no restrictions on in-person learning or extracurricular activities.

LaGrange says that includes In-person classes, field trips, team sports, extracurricular clubs, school celebrations, as well as international school programs, work experience, and graduation ceremonies.

Face masks won't be mandatory in schools but can be worn. They are, however, mandatory on school buses.

While students and staff are encouraged to be fully immunized before classes return, immunizations will be available through temporary clinics in schools for students in grades 7 to 12 as well as teachers and staff starting Sept. 7.

"Right now, only about half of youth 12 to 17 are fully vaccinated," said Dr. Deena Hinshaw, chief medical officer of health. "Providing vaccines through schools ensures vaccines will be accessible to all eligible school-aged children in the province."

As of August 12, 65 per cent of 12 to 14-year-olds have received one dose in Alberta, and 54 per cent are fully protected with two doses. A total of 67 per cent of 15 to 19-year-olds have been partially vaccinated in Alberta with one dose, and 56 per cent are fully protected with two doses.

Today's announcement is consistent with the extended timelines for easing COVID-19 measures. Students and school staff should screen daily for symptoms using the  Alberta Health Daily Checklist, and must isolate if they test positive or have the core COVID-19 symptoms.

A detailed 2021-22 School Year Plan contains two contingency scenarios for continuing student learning if there is a significant change in the COVID-19 situation in the fall.