All public schools in Chatham-Kent and the province will be shut down for two weeks after March Break due to concerns about COVID-19.
Late Thursday afternoon the Minister of Education issued a Ministerial Order to close all publicly funded schools based on advice from Dr. David Williams, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer.
“We recognize the significant impact this decision will have on families, students, schools, as well as the broader community, but this precaution is necessary to keep people safe,” stated the release from the Office of the Premier.
St. Clair Catholic District School Board issued a letter to parents saying that they will provide updates when they become available.
The Lambton Kent District School Board issued a statement on their website that they were aware of the order and are “in the process of gathering further information and will provide parents/guardians students and staff with more detailed information on Friday, March 13, 2020.”
Ministry of Education regulations state that a minimum of 194 days of school is required to complete a school year.
Staff at several daycares licensed by the Ministry of Education said they were waiting to hear back from their board of directors. None could be reached for comment at this time.
According to the provincial Ministry of Health, there were 17 new reported cases of COVID-19 in Ontario on Thursday.
More to come as the information becomes available.
