Yesterday the Government of Ontario announced their plan to lift many of the COVID-19 health and safety measures in public spaces and schools, effective Monday, March 21, 2022.
This means that after March Break:
- Students, staff and school visitors will no longer be required to wear masks in school or when riding school transportation. Individuals who feel more comfortable or who are advised by their health professional to wear a mask may continue to wear a mask and will be supported in doing so.
- Please note that upon return from international travel, individuals must wear a mask at all times when in public places including schools for a period of 14 days.
- Staff and students will no longer be required to confirm daily screening. However, students, staff and visitors should continue to review and adhere to the COVID-19 School and Child-Care Screening Tool prior to entering the school each day. Isolation requirements have been revised.
- Students and staff will no longer be required to remain in cohorts indoors or outdoors, and will no longer be required to physically distance.
- Gatherings in school will be permitted which means assemblies, Mass, graduations and proms can take place.
A number of health measures will remain in place:
- Appropriate hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette will be promoted and integrated throughout the school day.
- The enhanced cleaning protocols that are currently in place in our schools will continue.
- HEPA units are being placed in every classroom as we receive them from the Ministry.
- High-level mechanical ventilation standards will be maintained.
- For the time being, principals will continue to report student absenteeism to the Ministry on a daily basis and consult with York Region Public Health when absenteeism is high.
- Rapid Antigen Tests will be provided to staff and students who request them in order to support symptomatic testing.
- Anyone who is sick or has any new or worsening symptoms of illness are to stay home until their symptoms are improving for 24 hours (or 48 hours for nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea).
The YCDSB appreciates that students and families may have mixed reactions to this announcement. Please know that York Catholic staff members will continue to support student well-being as these changes are implemented, and work to ensure everyone feels safe, welcome and encouraged.
Please also be assured that the YCDSB will continue to consult with York Region Public Health to ensure we are taking all appropriate measures to protect the health and safety of our students, staff and families.