Statement in response to Minister Lecce’s confirmation that schools will resume in-person learning on January 17
Throughout the pandemic, we have emphasized the importance of in-person learning to the health, development, and well-being of our students. With that said, we previously recommended a variety of measures to the government to ensure that our schools are as safe as possible for our staff and students.
Statement on the January 2022 return to school
In the midst of this most recent wave in the pandemic, we want to express our ongoing confidence in our public health system, and our appreciation for the incredible work of our healthcare workers and leaders. In order to support the common good, as a society we must continue to do what is necessary to fight this threat, including vaccination and a commitment to masking.
Initial statement on return to school plan for January 2022
We appreciate the news that N95 masks, 3,000 additional HEPA filters, and Rapid Antigen Tests will be provided to school boards. We’re hoping they’ll be delivered to our schools as soon as possible.
Return of regular semesters and release of COVID-19 funding is great news for students and school boards
We are very pleased to see that secondary schools will be able to return to normal semester models with four courses per day, as of February 2022 and earlier where scheduling permits, subject to local public health approval. OPSBA and our member boards very much appreciate the release of the second half of the federal COVID-19 funding, for which we have strongly advocated. The decision to give all students five rapid antigen tests to take home over the Winter Break will be welcomed by school communities across the province.
2022 Ontario Public Student Trustee Leadership Scholarship
Nominations are now open for the Ontario Public Student Trustee Leadership Scholarship! The intent of this award is to recognize outstanding achievement in a leadership role and provide financial support to a graduating public board student trustee to assist with their post-secondary education plans (University, College, or Apprenticeship).
OPSBA Highlights
