Mary Hopkins News – January 16

We know that families have received a lot of notifications and information over the last few days.  We hope to highlight some of the most important elements to help you navigate the information.

Upcoming Dates

January 17 – Return to In-Person Learning
January 20 – Deadline to request permanent transition to remote learning via Parent Portal.
January 23 – French Immersion Application Deadline (for students currently in SK)
January 24 – Photo Re-takes
January 28 – PA Day-No classes
Feb 2 – School Council Meeting – 6:30 pm via Teams

Screening

Families are expected to actively screen each morning using the most current screener.  Use the following link COVID-19 school screening (ontario.ca). Sign off your verification calendar or teacher preferred method to indicate your child has passed the screening.  Students must stay home if sick to reduce the spread of the virus.

Students who fail the screening while at school, will need to be picked up immediately. Please ensure that contact information is up to date.

Decision Guide

If your child or someone in your household does not pass the screening, we ask that you use this guide to support your families in determining their next step. COVID At Home Protocol-01-05-2022

Input your Absence

We ask that you are diligent in reporting your child’s absence using the School Messenger app, or by phone.  “COVID-19 Related” has been added to the list of reasons for a student’s absence. 

Learning at home during an Absence 

While isolating, your child’s classroom educator will continue to support learning (asynchronously) if your child will be absent for more than one day and able to learn.

Remote Learning Options

More detailed information regarding each option can be found at the following link. Remote Learning Options for Students | Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board (hwdsb.on.ca)

Transition to Full-Time Remote Learning

The Remote Learning survey is now available to families until 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 20. This survey can be accessed through the Parent Portal. Families can also call the school to have their choice recorded by our office staff.  In this option, you will be transferred to the school hosting the remote learning class and will become a full student of this host school for the remainder of the school year. This is a choice for families who want their child to transition to full remote learning for the remainder of the school year.

Temporary or Short Term Virtual Learning

Families planning to delay their return to in-person learning will have a short-term virtual learning option. This short-term option will be delivered through separate independent (asynchronous) learning provided by the HWDSB program department.  It will be supplemented through a regular Teams event that will allow for questions and support. Families considering this option can notify the classroom teacher, office, or principal directly ([email protected]).  A temporary excusal form will be forwarded for completion.  Students can return to in-person learning at any time.

Masking

Masks are required for all HWDSB students, with reasonable exemptions for students who are unable to wear masks.  Our staff will take time during our first week to review how to manage and to wear masks properly.  The school will be provided with 3 layer masks for students who request one and/or require a replacement throughout the day.  Please send at least one extra mask as they often get moist or soiled throughout the day.

RAT and PCR Tests

The school will have limited access to both Rapid Antigen and PCR test kits.  More details will be shared with families shortly regarding distribution and use.