The decision was based on the re-opening roadmap through the combined efforts of the provincial government and the Chief Medical Health Office. The final phase of the re-open Saskatchewan roadmap was on July 11 where all public health restrictions and orders were lifted. However, the approach and plans for the school year can change depending on the risks or epidemiology. The high rate of vaccinations in the province should help protect children under the age of 12, who are still ineligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Saqib Shahab said kids 11 years old and below are not independently mobile and a high vaccination rate in parents, educators, and families and friends who are eligible for the vaccine protects them indirectly.