Dear Parents/Guardians,
On January 20, Dr. Nicola Mercer, Medical Officer of Health and CEO of Wellington-Guelph-Dufferin made the decision that all education for the period from January 25 to 29, inclusive, for all elementary and secondary school students within the geography of WDGPH, must take place and be delivered remotely. Current arrangements to support special education students should continue under this order.
These instructions are being provided pursuant to her authority made under the Reopening Ontario (A Flexible Response to Covid-19).
Dr. Mercer notes that these additional measures are intended to reduce the transmission of COVID-19 where existing collective efforts of various sectors, including school boards are required to protect our employees and children.
Mental Health Supports for Students and Families
If you are concerned about your child’s mental health, resources are available to students and families through Kids Help Phone, which offers 24/7 counselling and referral services across the province. To use this free resource, children can call 1-800-668-6868, or text CONNECT to 686868 for immediate access to support.
As well, school board staff, including social workers and child and youth workers, may be available to offer support. Please feel free to contact the school, if you require assistance. School Mental Health Ontario also has many great resources for students, parents and families on their website at www.smho-smso.ca
The announcement from Dr. Mercer can be found here: Online learning extended in all Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph schools for an additional week
Together in Catholic Education,
Mike Glazier
Director of Education