September 24, 2020
Tansi Ohpikinahawasowak (Parents and Guardians),
Our schools are thrilled to welcome back students for the 2020-2021 school year. Although this school year looks different, MESC is committed to student learning and reducing risk for Otatoskewak (Staff), Kiskinwahamawâkanak (Students), and Ohpikinahawasowak (Parents).
The current situation with the COVID-19 pandemic brings about uncertainty. We understand our families are weighing out options to make a decision on education for their child(ren). The MESC Re-Entry Plan is anchored by four powerful cornerstones aimed at mitigating the spread of Covid 19:
- Student Cohorts (no more than 15 in a classroom, includes Teacher, EA and Students),
- Daily screening of staff and students and a strict stay at home policy when staff or students are sick,
- Enhanced cleaning and hand washing protocols, and;
- Promotion and implementation of physical distancing and use of masks by staff and students.
To further underline MESC’s commitment to provide a safe and healthy learning environment for students and staff, MESC has developed a Maskwacîs protocol for school closure in the event of a positive case of COVID-19 at one of its schools. Referred to as the “MESC Guidelines to Manage a Positive COVID-19 Case”
We remind families to monitor for any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 using the daily self-screening checklist. If you or a member of your family has any of the symptoms of illness listed, please fill out the online Alberta Health Services COVID-19 self-assessment or call Health Link at 811.
We know this can be distressing and supports are available. Please do not hesitate to reach out to your school principal with any questions. Thank you for your continued support and by working together we will keep our children safe.
Ekosi Pitima,
Brian Wildcat, B.P.E., M.Ed.,
Ka-Ostikwaniska Kiskinwahamatowin
Maskwacîs Education Schools Commission
