Superior-North Catholic DSB Return to School & Town Hall Meeting September 9
2021-2022 School Year Safety Practices and Protocols
Dear SNCDSB Families,
As the start of the 2021-22 school year approaches next week, the safe opening of our schools remains our top priority. The guidance document we received from the Ministry of Education this month, along with our consultations with the Thunder Bay District Health Unit have informed our specific plans for a safe reopening on Thursday, September 2.
Safety Practices and Protocols
While we continue to refine our SNCDSB specific guidelines as new information becomes available, below are some of the key decisions and safety protocols which will inform our safe reopening next week. To access our full reopening guidelines please visit our website.
Masks
The use of face masks by all grade 1 to 8 students is required indoors. Masking for JK/ SK students is highly recommended. All staff and visitors inside our schools will also be required to wear masks.
Outdoor Learning
Students being outside will be encouraged and regularly scheduled (weather permitting). Masks are not required (but recommended) to be worn by students outdoors when physical distancing cannot be maintained.
Cohorts and Physical Distancing
Contact tracing continues to be a requirement of public health. Appropriate physical distancing and outdoor activities (including recess and lunch) will provide students an opportunity to safely interact with their peers in other cohorts.
Assemblies
Virtual and outdoor assemblies (weather permitting) will be encouraged.
Physical Education
Indoor and outdoor gym classes will support well-being. Interactive technology enhancements in our gyms this summer and fall will support physical fitness and extend learning.
Sharing items
Students sharing materials is now permitted. We have been advised that the risk associated with transmission as a result of sharing objects is low.
Transportation
Effective practices established last year, including: assigned seating, masking and cleaning will continue.
Learning Modes
On Thursday, September 2, SNCDSB students returned to either their in-person classes or our Remote Learning Program.
Other SNCDSB successful implementation measures from last year such as hand hygiene, signage, cleaning and the use of HEPA filters to enhance air quality will continue and augment the health and safety protocols identified above. All health and safety protocols will continue to be reviewed and adjusted as consultations continue with the Thunder Bay District Health Unit and the Ministry of Education.
We are excited to welcome your children back to our schools next week and look forward to continuing to update you at our Town Hall Meeting on September 9th at 7 p.m.
