Dear Parents/Guardians:

We are writing today to notify you that due to the new direction received from the Thunder Bay District Health Unit regarding testing guidelines and when to return to school this may result in a classroom being temporarily closed if the classroom teacher becomes ill and we do not have an occasional teacher to replace them. This is not just a local issue but a provincial one.

At Superior North Catholic District School Board we remain committed to protecting the health and safety of our students, staff and communities. We continue to work closely with the Thunder Bay District Health Unit and modify our return to school plans based on their recommendations.

The following directions have been provided by the Thunder Bay Health Unit:

If an individual has any of the following symptoms, even if mild and particularly if they are new or unexplained, it is recommended that they be tested for COVID-19. Specifically in the case of students, if you choose not to get your child tested, they must stay home from school:

• Until 14 days after the symptoms or illness started OR
• At least 24 hours after symptoms have resolved, if an alternate diagnosis has been provided by a health care provider * OR
• At least 24 hours after symptoms have resolved AND a health care provider assessed the student and did NOT recommend testing for COVID-19*.

Under the direction set out by Thunder Bay District Health Unit to reduce the risk of COVID-19, it is important that students and staff with any symptoms do not attend school until they are no longer at risk of spreading infection. Parents and caregivers must screen their child(ren) every day and keep their child(ren) home if they have symptoms. Schools must send anyone who has symptoms or appears to be unwell home from school.

In the event that a classroom would have to close, students would receive instruction from their classroom teacher from home remotely. As a Google For Education Board, our schools will continue to offer learning to our students through the use of Google Classroom to ensure a smooth transition for our students should this situation arise. We are currently in the process of working on an instructional plan that would support educators' and students' needs. Chromebooks have been provided to all of our students from Grade 1-8 and should a classroom have to be closed arrangements would be made to distribute these Chromebooks for at-home use.

Our schools continue to adapt to a changing situation and we are working to ensure guidelines are followed to protect our students and staff.

Should you have any questions or concerns please contact your school Principal.

Sincerely,

Maria Vasanelli

Director of Education