Ontario Decides to Close Schools in response to COVID-19

By: Laura Steiner

The Provincial government has decided to close schools for two weeks following March Break.  The decision was taken as part of the provincial response to the COVID-19 pandemic.  March Break will now run from March 14- April 5, 2020.

The announcement was made in a statement from Premier Doug Ford, Education Minister Stephen Lecce, and Health Minister Christine Elliott.  “The health and well-being of Ontarians is our government’s number one priority,” the statement reads.  The decision was made on the advice of Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. David Williams.  It was an order in council, and approved by the Lieutenant Governor.

“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,” they said.  The decision applies to all publicly-funded schools in the province of Ontario.

Halton School Boards React to closure decision

The Halton District School Board (HDSB) is aware of the decision to close.  “We will communicate with staff and families once an update becomes available,” they tweeted.

The Halton Catholic District School Board (HCDSB) is out with an update on its website.  “The health and well-being of our students and staff remains our highest priority,” they said.

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