A statement from the Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board states the priority of Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board is the safety and well-being of students, families and staff, particularly as they prepare for the return to school in September.
“We appreciate the direction from the Ministry of Education about reopening schools in September. Now that we have this information, we can finalize plans for all HPEDSB schools. We know that students, parents/guardians and staff may be feeling anxious during these uncertain times. We are doing our best to be nimble in order to adjust to this dynamic situation and commit to providing updates as timely as possible,” said Sean Monteith, Director of Education.
The safety and well-being of students and staff are the foundation of the school reopening planning and decision making.
Return to school plans are based on advice, guidance and directives of the Ministry of Education and the provincial health officials, and are in consultation with local public health officials. Staff are working closely with public health, neighbouring school boards, Tri-Board Student Transportation Services, community partners and staff.
Staff will be focusing on everyday strategies to support educators and students for a mentally healthy return to school, encouraging inclusivity, building trust and creating the optimal conditions for learning and development.
The decision to send children to school remains the choice of parents/guardians. HPEDSB respects and honours that parent choice. In the coming days, outreach will occur with parents/guardians to assist in understanding the number of students to be in school in September.
“We realize that the decision to send children to school is an incredibly difficult one. To prepare our schools to be as best and responsive as possible, we will be contacting families in the days ahead to get an idea of parent intentions,” said Monteith.
Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board Communications Officer Jessica Salmon says in response to the Ministry of Education’s announcement earlier this afternoon, the Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board continues to finalize plans for return to school.
They say they are working with local public health units and other community partners to ensure that health and safety remains a priority for students, staff and community as they return to school.
A detailed plan with what ALCDSB schools will look like will be released early August. This information will be posted on the board/school websites, social media and through SchoolMessenger.
