Chair’s Statement on Return to Semesters and Enhanced Testing
Ontario News Release: Ontario Enhancing COVID-19 Winter Testing
Backgrounder: Building on Ontario’s Plan to Keep Schools Safe and Open for In-person Learning
Statement from Dawn Danko, Chair of the Board of Trustees:
“Throughout this pandemic, we have worked to minimize disruptions to student learning while supporting student well-being. We welcome Ontario’s announcement today regarding a return to a normal secondary school model for second semester, continued COVID-19 relief funding, and opportunities to increase screening over the winter break.
We have eagerly awaited the announcement that allows us to return to regular secondary school timetabling for the next semester, but we know that it brings more change for our schools. Students tell us that transitions may be challenging. We will seek student and staff input on how to best support the return to the regular, four-course semester model for second term, working alongside our colleagues at public health.
In addition, we thank the government for confirming the second half of COVID-19 relief funding. This funding is crucial as we continue enhanced safety protocols and supports for students and staff for the remainder of this school year. Although COVID-19 case numbers are relatively low, we must remain vigilant as cold weather leads to increased time spent indoors.
Today’s announcement also included details on a plan to distribute rapid antigen screening tests to public schools before the winter break, as a layer of protection over the holidays. We will work to distribute these tests as soon as possible. We will also see a temporary return to daily active screening verification after the holidays as one more measure that will help keep schools safe, welcoming and open for in-person learning.”
In the days ahead, HWDSB will share more details about these announcements with students, families and staff.
Updated on Friday, November 19, 2021.