The Thames Valley District School Board is recommending masks continue to be worn. In a letter sent out to families on Friday, the Board says that based on advice from the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, and in alignment with local public health units’ recent public statements, the Board of Trustees strongly recommends that all students, staff and visitors continue to wear a mask, which is an added layer of prevention and protection against COVID-19 and is strongly recommended for individuals at higher risk of COVID-19. The board went on to say wearing a mask is still required for students and school staff in certain circumstances after COVID-19 exposure or symptoms. Wearing masks is no longer required in schools, however, masks are available for all students, staff and visitors and will be distributed, upon request.
Indoor School-Wide Events
Effective immediately, TVDSB schools will provide a minimum of one day’s notice to families if an indoor school-wide event is being planned (i.e., school assembly). School staff will provide communication to allow families the option to keep their child(ren) home from in-person learning during the indoor school-wide event, if they choose.
Virtual Learning Option
For the remainder of this school year, Thames Valley will continue to allow for flexibility and choice of learning models for families, where possible. From March 25 to April 5th, TVDSB will be providing the opportunity for families to pivot from in-person learning to virtual learning, if preferred and if space is available. Families that wish to transition to virtual synchronous learning are asked to contact their school for more information. Please note that this may not be an option for many courses in secondary virtual learning due to the start of the second semester and course availability.
Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs)
In an effort to help slow the spread of COVID-19, reduce absences, and support our TVDSB communities, we are pleased to offer rapid antigen test kits for symptomatic students and staff.
In alignment with the updated testing guidance, rapid antigen tests are to be used only if the individual is experiencing symptoms compatible with COVID-19.
Please reach out to your school directly to access a supply of RATs along with RAT instructions for use. TVDSB recommends that families and staff always maintain a stock of 2 rapid antigen tests if symptoms arise while at home prior to attending school or work.
