Dear Parents and Guardians:
SD73’s Re-start plan has been approved by the Ministry of Education. You can read it here. Our operational guidelines, developed with our education partners and health authorities, ensure a consistent district-wide approach to keep schools safe for all students, teachers and staff.
I understand these are anxious times, but as Dr. Bonnie Henry says, We need to learn to live with this virus, and that is done by respecting the health and safety guidelines outlined in our plan.
It is important for the social development of children that they return to school. And, our staff are ready to support you as you prepare for the education of your child(ren). Please watch for communication from your child(ren)’s principal and teacher regarding back to school orientation and classroom placements.
Our staff and school principals have been hard at work throughout the summer to ensure a successful and safe return to school that aligns with the requirements of the Provincial Health Office and the Ministry of Education.
For more information, please visit our website and do not hesitate to reach out to your school to discuss your child(ren)’s needs.
Together we will keep each other safe while ensuring that your children receive the education they need and deserve.
Sincerely,
Alison
School re-starts the week of September 8. Please read a summary of our Education Re-start Plan below.
September 8 and 9
On September 8 and 9, all staff will be instructed in the updated health and safety guidelines specific to their school. Teachers and staff will use this time to adjust to their new routines, finalize plans for learning groups, review health, and safety protocols and prepare lesson plans that teach students how to protect themselves and others while at school and in public. During these two days staff will contact families directly to inform students about their first day.
September 10 and 11
Students will return to school for one full day only during this week. Staff will advise families which day their child is scheduled to attend. On this day, students will be assigned to their classes and meet the children assigned to their learning group. Students will also be taught the health and safety routines and protocols and learn how to move safely within the school.
Mental Health and Well-being
Equity and inclusion are a particular focus in our plan. Schools will continue to deliver support and services for students on Inclusive Education Plans. Options and support for students with underlying complex medical needs will continue.
Busing
School buses will run at regular times. Middle and secondary students must wear masks while on the bus. New health and safety guidelines will be followed. This includes loading from back to front and offloading from front to back.
Further Information
For more details, we encourage parents to check the FAQ we have posted to our parent resource page on our district website. If parents have a question specific to their children and school, we ask them to contact their principal after August 31. For more general questions, please send us an email.