Memorandum to:
Principals of Private Schools
Principals of First Nation/Federally Operated Schools
From:
Jeff Butler
Assistant Deputy Minister
Student Support and Field Services Branch
&
Denise Dwyer
Assistant Deputy Minister
Indigenous Education and Well-Being Division
We are committed to keeping you informed during the COVID-19 outbreak. As you are aware, the Government of Ontario has issued orders under the authority of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act that require all private schools as defined in the Education Act, including First Nation/federally funded schools, to be closed. These orders have been extended to July 10, 2020. Note that the orders permit the provision of services online, by telephone or other remote means.
The government of Ontario is following the orders of Dr. David Williams, Ontario's Chief Medical Officer of Health and the experts at the COVID-19 Command Table to keep everyone safe. We will continue to act on the advice of Dr. Williams as the situation evolves.
Private schools and First Nation/federally funded schools with specific questions about the applicability of the order to their operations or circumstances should consult with their legal counsel. Where access is considered, schools should discuss with their local public health unit regarding doing so in such a way that will minimize chance of exposure and comply with physical distancing and self-isolation requirements.
We know the actions we are taking are affecting the lives and livelihoods of people across the province, but these are extraordinary times and we need to do whatever we can to keep individuals and families safe and stop the spread of this terrible virus.
We recognize that you will have many additional questions and we are committed to providing additional information on an ongoing basis.
For questions related to private schools, please contact fsb.psie@ontario.ca. For questions related to First Nation/federally funded schools, please contact IEO@ontario.ca.
Learn about how the government is supporting people, businesses and families during COVID-19 by visiting www.ontario.ca/coronavirus.
Thank you for your ongoing commitment to Ontario students and children.