Utah kids head back-to-school while Salt Lake Valley had the worst air quality in the world

Salt Lake County, Utah — Canyons, Granite, and Jordan school districts all started back today.

According to IQAir, Monday morning, the Salt Lake Valley had the worst air quality in the world.

The smoke did not dampen today’s return to school festivities at Altara Elementary in Sandy. After missing out on the first day of fun last year, today teachers and staff were able to greet students with a red carpet and bubble machine reception. Proud parents waved their children into the school. But within moments it was officially designated a red air quality day, meaning no outside recess for these youngsters, at least for today. Not a list where you want to be number one.

“We’re finally back together, they can go outside and play and be kids, because we do still have the kind of locked down in seating charts in the building,” said Nicole Svee-Magann, principal at Altara Elementary school. “But with his air quality they can’t go outside, we keep them inside when it’s orange and red and so we will have some fun indoor games and it might be a good way to orient them to their new classroom.”

Nicole and other educators always trying to remain glass half full despite all the changes being thrown at them.

They will be keeping an eye on the weather over the next day or so to see if the smoke allows school kids to go outside for recess.