Despite a spike in regional COVID-19 cases, the province has no plans to close schools right now.
“That’s the last resort. Shutdown schools. I know parents enjoy that the kids are going to school. The kids enjoy it,” says Premier Doug Ford.
Ford is crediting local officials for keeping staff and students safe.
“Teachers. You are doing an incredible job. And the leadership within the schools, that I just think the world over, the principals, the vice-principals. And I got to give a shout-out to the school boards too. Everyone is doing a great job.”
Ford notes Education Minister Stephen Lecce will soon be announcing plans for schools for the holiday season.
It is believed that it may include extending the two-week Christmas break an extra week.
At Queen’s Park, the Minister was quoted as saying early closure of schools is possible before the new year to slow the spread of COVID-19.
A public school in Dryden reported a positive case of COVID-19 on Monday.
The Northwestern Health Unit is working closely with the Keewatin-Patricia District School Board to minimize the impact on the community. The school remains open to those who have not been identified as close contacts and told to self-isolate.
The Rainy River District School Board announced a case impacting a staff member last week. That person is currently self-isolating.
