Normally a time of excitement, this has become one of apprehension for parents as children prepare to head back to the classroom.

A survey by Angus Reid Institute has found most parents of school-aged children; regardless of age, are okay with them returning to in-person learning.

Three-quarters of parents with a child 12-17, and two-thirds with a child aged 5-11, are comfortable with the return to school.

However, three-quarters (74%) of parents with older children, and four-in-five (81%) with kids aged 5-11, think vaccines should be mandatory for teachers and other school staff.

Most of both groups of parents are concerned their children could catch COVID-19.

Those whose children are ineligible for the vaccine are the most worried with one-third (34%) of parents with a child aged 5-11 ”very concerned.”

Even mothers and fathers whose child is vaccinated worry.

Three-in-five with an immunized son or daughter aged 12-17 say they’re still worried about them getting infected.

Despite all the concern, the survey found nine-in-ten (88%) of both groups of parents prefer their children learn in class rather than online.