Dear Families,
The Minister of Education confirmed that schools will not return until May 31, 2020 at the earliest to help slow the spread of COVID-19. Earlier this week, the Premier also unveiled a three-staged framework for “re-opening” the province. Although schools were not named specifically, it appears schools would be part of the final phase.
While a further extension of the province-wide school closure was expected, we know this news may pose additional challenges and stress for students, families and staff. Please know, as we have emphasized before, our priority is everyone’s health and well-being. That will remain our focus as we enhance our emergency remote learning plans.
To date, Limestone has distributed more than 2,000 devices to students and another 200 to staff to assist with remote learning. We know that for many students and families, it is Internet access that remains an issue not devices. Staff will continue to work with these students to ensure there are opportunities for learning from home. If your student(s) still requires a device, please reach out directly to their teacher(s) or your school. Contact information for all schools is available on each school website. If you are having difficulty with your LDSB account or LDSB device, please visit this support page for help.
The Ministry also announced it will introduce an expanded summer learning program that will focus on credit recovery, supports for vulnerable students, and course upgrading. We do not have any further details on how this might supplement the Board’s existing online summer learning programming. We will share more details in the coming days and weeks.
While we continue to ask that you focus on your wellness, we do encourage all students to engage in learning from home during these closures wherever possible. Engaging in learning can provide students with a positive connection to their teachers and peers, and prepare them for future learning. We know strong social connections are one of the most powerful influences on our mood and mental health. A sense of rhythm and routine can also provide a positive outlet for some. If your student is struggling and you feel they need some extra support, please reach out to their teacher(s). We are here to help.
To help us better understand the experiences of our students and families learning at home, we will be asking families to answer a short survey soon. We will be asking staff to complete the same. We want to know about your challenges, successes and any suggestions to help us adjust our supports going forward.
Until then, please continue to follow all public health directives and take time for self-care, an important part of wellness. Discover what helps you to feel good and recharge.
Stay well. Stay safe.
Debra Rantz
Director of Education
April 28, 2020 Message from the Minister of Education to Ontario Families
April 24, 2020 Message from the Board of Trustees
April 17, 2020 Message to Families
April 9, 2020 Message to Families
April 2, 2020 Message to Families
March 31, 2020 Message to Families
March 31, 2020 Message from the Minister of Education to Ontario Families
March 23, 2020 Message to Families
March 23, 2020 Message from the Chair of the Board
March 13, 2020 Message to Families
Frequently Asked Questions re COVID-19
Talking with children and youth about COVID-19