Letter to Parents/Guardians

November 2, 2020 / KSD

Dear Parents/Guardians,

The attached document summarizes the restricted level (orange) measures for K-12 schools in the province.

While minimal transmission is occurring in schools, these measures are in response to the current risks and conditions given rising community transmission. The minimal school-level transmission among the K–12 schools with confirmed cases within Manitoba demonstrates that cohorts and other public health measures have been effective in mitigating the risk of transmission and informing contact tracing.

Recognizing that implementation planning is needed, the temporary remote learning option in Elementary Schools is not expected to be in place by Monday. Schools are engaging staff in strategic planning and will advise parents once the preparations are completed later this week.

Ecole Opasquia and Kelsey Community School believe that nothing is more important than having students attend school. However, recognizing that an additional option is required to help alleviate any parent concern or reluctance in sending students to school, both in-class and remote learning options will be in place for two weeks. After this time, the schools will re-assess needs. Parents will receive letters regarding the options and should commit to either the in-class or remote option for their child in order to help schools with their planning.

Last week, Scott Bateman began an alternate day school plan to maximize the distancing in classes. Grade 6 students can continue to attend school on a daily basis. Grade 6 parents would need to advise the school on their preference to adequately prepare classes. MBCI, Mary Duncan, and Kelsey Learning Center continue to run school programs outlined in September.

Schools are open to children of essential workers. When there is a reduction in staffing due to absenteeism, the school may be required to combine student groups (from the same cohort) or cancel certain classes. We will strive to keep classes running to the best of our ability. However, overseeing the health and safety of all students and staff remains a priority at this time.