After a long, languorous summer vacation, students and staff across School District 5 (Southeast Kootenay) are heading back to class on Tuesday, Sept. 6.

All schools in Cranbrook, the South Country, Jaffray, Fernie, Sparwood and Elkford will be in session from 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. on that day.

Secondary and middle schools may have alternate start times on opening day. Parents and students are advised to contact their local school directly to get exact times.

After Tuesday, normal school hours resume.

More information is available at the School District's website, www.sd5.bc.ca

As far as enrolment numbers go, School District staff indicate the situation is stable, with similar enrolment to last year. Official numbers will be available towards the end of the month.

On Wednesday, August 31, British Columbia teachers served strike notice, citing a lack of progress in bargaining talks with the employer.

The job action, which also begins Tuesday across the province, means teachers won't be taking part in administrative duties, such as supervising the playground, taking attendance or holding conferences with their principals.

They will not be issuing report cards should the strike last that long.