Ontario schools are getting over $2-billion in new funding for next school year, including $1.6-billion specifically for COVID-19 related supports.
Education Minister Stephen Lecce is announcing that will include $40-million over two years for remote learning.
The plan also features $20-million for what the province calls re-engagement plans, noting many students have become disconnected from learning or school during the pandemic.
Ontario is promising another $383-million for staffing costs, and over $29-million to cover higher operating costs related to things like ventilation systems or air filter replacements.
Some funding from the 2020-2021 school year will continue, including up to $450-million for personal protective equipment & critical supplies and equipment.
The province is directing school boards to prepare to have access to half of that funding for the first half of next school year, and it will announce in the fall if it expects to roll out the remainder of the money.
The announcement also included over $80-million in mental health support funding.
“Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health has said that schools have been safe, and with this record investment and continued implementation of the best medical advice, we will keep schools safe as we look ahead to September,” says Minister Lecce. “Our investments can help hire more than 1,000 mental health workers and allow children to have direct access to teacher-led math tutoring.”
All remaining education staff will be eligible to register to get vaccinated starting May 6th.
