Local Public Health and School Boards Working Together to Support Safe Return to School

Kingston, ON – Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) and KFL&A Public Health are working together with local school boards to provide a safe and welcoming learning environment for students and staff this September.

As announced today by the Ontario Premier, Doug Ford and the Minister of Education, Stephen Leece, Ontario elementary and secondary schools will return to classes in September.

HPEPH and KFL&A Public Health have been working together with school boards throughout the summer to plan enhanced processes and safety measures to support various return to school options. Details about these processes are being finalized in order to align with the recent provincial announcement. Additional information will be shared with parents, students, and staff in the coming weeks to help everyone prepare for changes in the school environment.

“We have a shared responsibility towards the well-being of elementary and secondary school students,” said Dr. Kieran Moore, Medical Officer of Health at KFL&A Public Health. “Returning to school is necessary for children and youth, so that they don’t miss out on essential academic and social-emotional learning, formative relationships with peers and adults, opportunities for play, and other developmental necessities.” 

HPEPH, KFL&A Public Health, and local school boards recognize that kids, parents, caregivers, and staff may have concerns about returning to school during the COVID-19 pandemic. The community can be reassured that there are existing processes in place to respond to any cases or outbreaks of infectious disease in the school environment, and that public health and education partners are working together to implement many additional protocols to reduce the potential spread of illness among students.

HPEPH and KFL&A Public Health recognizes that parenting can be stressful, especially during uncertain times. Over the coming weeks, we will be sharing messages to help parents and caregivers be well, stay positive, and keep connected during the back to school season.

To learn more about COVID-19, how you can protect yourself and what to do if you suspect you may be at risk, visit www.Kflaph.ca/Coronavirus or visit Ontario’s website to learn more about how the province continues to protect Ontarians from COVID-19.