The new school year starts on Tuesday, however not everyone will be returning to the classroom.
The Mountain View School Division has adapted plans to make things as COVID-19 friendly as possible, and that includes the use of remote learning.
MVSD Superintendent Dan Ward says remote learning will be offered to any student that has underlying health issues, provided they have a recommendation from their physician.
“We’re asking parents that would like to access remote learning for their kids to seek advice from their health care provider, and if there’s a need for a child to learn from home they have to get a note from their doctor, and we will set that child up for remote learning.”
Remote learning is also available if a student in the MVSD has a family member with an underlying health issue. In that case, a medical note is still required before being accepted for remote learning options.
The MVSD Superintendent says those who are required to learn from home will get additional support from school counsellors, teachers, youth support workers, and social workers.
Students will also have the option to use the divisions ‘Device Loan Out Program,’ giving them access to any devices they need for classes, as well as free Wi-Fi.
When it comes to immunocompromised teachers, the division will assess the best way for teachers to remain working.
“It could be a whole range of things. In some instances where it’s possible, it may be moving the work site, and in other situations, it may be offering teacher’s advice in terms of how to access benefits like sick leave, or short term and long term disability leave. It’s not a one size fits all.”
Ward says there is also a provincial homeschooling option for parents and students, as well as an independent study option.
More information can be found on the MVSD website.
