Sign outside the Lakehead Public Schools Jim McQuaig Education Centre. (Staff Photo)
Some areas of Ontario’s back to school plan has students, teachers and school boards confused with just weeks to go until the start of the new year.
The plan released Tuesday included guidelines such as using a mask indoors unless eating or drinking but didn’t address any policies concerning COVID-19 outbreaks in schools.
President of the Lakehead Elementary Teachers of Ontario Mike Judge wasn’t surprised to see certain information withheld.
“Unfortunately that seems to be the method of operating for this government, they love to get up in front of the media but often are a little lighter on the finer details that we’re left to execute,” said Judge.
Judge added he would have appreciated receiving the plan sooner, but believes the board is more than capable of managing with the time given.
“I’m pleased to actually get the announcement, to actually see a plan on paper finally,” Judge noted. “The track of our administrative team, looking back to last fall when we had no details and were heading into Labour Day Weekend, the team at our school board has done an exceptional job facing circumstances that would be overwhelming to most.”
Lakehead Public School’s Director of Education Ian MacRae was also happy to receive the plan, but also confused by certain aspects of the plan.
“The last page of the plan indicates operational guidelines, (but I’m told those) will be forthcoming on managing any COVID situations in schools,” mentioned MacRae.
MacRae said the return of activities, clubs, and sports will only benefit students, believing there is a strong connection between these and academic success.
