Good afternoon,
As we prepare to begin a new school year, it is important that you are aware of the directives and measures that the provincial government has put into place. The orientations of the 2021-2022 back-to-school plan were established based on the current health situation and the ongoing vaccination rollout among the population. Earlier today, the Minister of Education released a series of revised measures for our schools and centres; a summary of the measures is listed below:
- School and Centre Openings: first and foremost, it should be noted that all schools (primary, elementary, secondary, adult education, and vocational training) are open for in-school learning, with the expectation of 100% of students attending schools and centres on a full-time basis
- Wearing of Masks:
- Students in Kindergarten are not required to wear masks
- Students in Region 08 (G. Théberge, Noranda, Golden Valley, WQ Continuing Education Centre-Val D’or, Anishnabe Adult Education Centre) must wear masks while on buses, and while in common areas inside their respective school or centre
- Students in Region 07 (all other schools and centres) must wear masks while on buses, and at all times while inside their respective school or centre (common areas and classrooms)
- Physical Distancing: there are no physical distancing guidelines for students
- Hygiene and Disinfection Measures: the following health measures will be maintained:
- cleaning and disinfection, particularly with regard to frequently touched surfaces;
- hand hygiene routines for students and staff
- evaluation of students with symptoms to determine if isolation is necessary
- School Transportation: students will be assigned seats. Procedural masks are required for students in elementary and secondary school
- Organization of Class Groupings: at this time, class bubbles are not mandatory
- Medical Exemptions: parents of students who are deemed medically vulnerable to Covid-19 (or reside with someone deemed medically vulnerable) may apply for an exemption to access virtual learning at the WQSB Online Academy. Please note that application forms must be submitted (along with a letter from a medical doctor) to the attention of Mr. Pat Hall, WQOA Principal at wqstudentexemption@wqsb.qc.ca . Application forms may be downloaded from the WQOA website: https://onlineacademy.westernquebec.ca/
- Indoor Sports Facilities: students may remove their masks while participating in a Physical Education class, or during a physical activity
- Extracurricular Activities: extracurricular activities are permitted; in secondary schools, students who participate in an extracurricular activity must provide proof of vaccination
It is understood that we will receive revised measures as we move through the school year; please rest assured that these will be communicated to you in a timely and efficient manner. Should you have any questions or concerns, you are kindly asked to forward them to: WQQuestions@wqsb.qc.ca
Sincerely,
George Singfield
Secretary General-Director of Corporate Services and Communication
819-684-2336 (505001)