As if COVID-19 hasn't created enough challenges for teachers and students in Alberta now the Foothills School Division teachers have an extra hurdle to cross when it comes to preparing lessons for students.

Due to the increase in COVID-19 cases in the area, FSD38 is now limiting access to school buildings and are asking teachers to work off-site if possible.

Vince Hunter, Principal at FCHS/AHFA, says they have set up an access schedule for teachers.

"With some of the rises in case, particularly in High River, our division did, in support with Alberta Health make the recommendation that staff work from home unless they were unable to carry out their duties," said Hunter.

Hunter explained that science teachers and others who require access to their classroom in order to prepare online videos or lessons can sign up for access to the building.

He said having fewer people in the building has changed the working atmosphere and he misses the companionship of working together.

"We were able to all work in the building with respect to social distancing and I just felt it provided a bit of vibe and support network to each other, and not having that has just been something I just wasn't prepared for," said Hunter.

Hunter said the Foothills School Division executive team put protocols into place April 14 with plans to run until the end of April but that timeline has been extended until May 15th.

The new access rules apply to all FSD schools in Okotoks but in High River, no staff or teachers are able to work in the buildings and the schools remain closed.

Hunter said they are all making it work but having less contact with co-workers makes working together more difficult.

He said they have made good use of technology and they are still able to keep the communication up between families, students, and teachers.