With classes set to begin Tuesday of next week, area school boards are preparing to welcome back students and their families to what is hoped will be a more normal year.
With classes set to begin Tuesday of next week, area school boards are preparing to welcome back students and their families to what is hoped will be a more normal year.
The health, safety and well-being of students and staff are the top priorities for the return to in-person learning, Lambton Kent District school board officials stated on its website.
John Howitt, director of education, said staff have been working diligently throughout the summer to ensure facilities are ready.
“We’re very optimistic this school year will have significantly fewer disruptions than we’ve had the previous two years,” he said in a video message.
“That said, we also want to be transparent and recognize that there might be some things beyond our control that occur, and we commit to you that we will promptly communicate any disruptions should they occur.”
Mental-health professionals will be available for students to visit throughout the year, with additional supports in place to help with the transition back to school.
Junior kindergarten students will have a staggered entry, with half of the students attending Sept. 7 and the remaining half starting class on Sept. 8.
All senior kindergarten students will begin full-time attendance this coming Tuesday. Schools will reach out to the families of kindergarten students with more information about start dates.
Families are encouraged to read the school board’s Handbook for School Success, which outlines details such as support services, transportation, school programming and operations.
Prior to attending class, it is recommended that all students, staff and visitors complete the daily COVID-19 school screening assessment tool and follow its directions.
Individuals should stay home if they are feeling ill. The board says it’s prepared to respond to changes throughout the year, based on ministry and public health guidance.
Parents with any specific questions about their children prior to the start of the school year can reach out to their school.
Scott Johnson, director of education for the St. Clair Catholic District school board, said school communities have demonstrated “incredible flexibility and resilience” throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
He called it time to shift the thinking from apprehension and concern to hope and opportunity.
“I am pleased that our schools are ready to return to a normalized school experience, where students can engage fully in academic, athletic, artistic, social justice, wellness and faith formation activities throughout the school day,” Johnson said in a statement.
“This will include opportunities for experiential learning and outdoor education and, in our secondary schools, a return to fully operational cafeterias.”
Schools will continue to provide masks for staff, students and visitors who wish to wear them, with Johnson adding the board continues to encourage “welcoming and inclusive environments for any individuals who wish to wear a mask.”
Staff and students will also continue to have access to rapid antigen tests in accordance with provincial testing guidance. Those wishing to access the tests following an unplanned absence can request them from the school office.
Johnson said the board will follow direction from the chief medical officer of health, Ministry of Education, and Chatham-Kent and Lambton public health.
“All students will continue to have access to school-based mental-health services provided by our exceptional support staff,” he said.
It is recommended that staff, students and visitors continue to self-screen for COVID-19 each day using the screening tool.
Schools will continue to monitor absence rates and notify public health officials whenever the rates due to illness exceed what is considered typical, Johnson added.