Dear families,
As you likely know by now, the Government of Ontario has announced that all publicly funded schools will move to remote learning starting January 5 until at least January 17, 2022. I know this is not what some people wanted; however, Limestone school staff will continue to meet students’ needs as best they can, and as they have done since the pandemic began.
The shift back to remote learning will be a challenge for some students and families, and school staff will work with them to ensure as smooth a transition as possible. Students needing devices and/or internet connectivity will hear directly from schools regarding the process for obtaining technology supports.
Students with significant special education needs and who cannot be accommodated through remote learning may be provided face-to-face learning at their home school. Families will be contacted by their home schools shortly to identify their intent to send their student(s) to school.
Child-care operations within schools, including emergency child-care, may continue to operate in person. Families should reach out directly to their child-care provider for specific instructions and information.
Remote learning may look different for each student depending on their needs and the course content. Learning may be a combination of synchronous (live) and asynchronous (scheduled) activities for the next two weeks. Students and families are encouraged to visit the board website for additional resources and technology supports.
For now, all in-person extra-curricular activities remain paused at least for the duration of the current remote learning schedule. Virtual activities may continue if possible.
Schools will continue to support students’ mental well-being. School-based mental health staff will be available to support students virtually as needed. Schools will target intensive help to those who have been most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, including referrals to community mental health providers where required.
Over the next two weeks, public health authorities encourage everyone to continue following all directives to help slow the spread of COVID-19, and the Omicron variant in particular. Public health indicates that vaccination continues to be the most effective strategy to help reduce COVID-19 transmission. A list of ongoing vaccination clinics for first, second and third doses (booster) is available on the KFL&A Public Health website.
We are working on a frequently asked questions document to help address some of the more common questions and concerns for the return to in-person learning. We will share this with families as it is updated.
In the meantime, please stay safe and well. We appreciate your ongoing patience and flexibility as we continue to navigate the pandemic.
Krishna Burra
Director of Education