COVID-19 Updates for Families

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Masking and vaccines encouraged to limit spread of COVID-19

To: All HDSB families (including GALC) and secondary school students

April 14, 2022

Dear HDSB families,

As communicated earlier this week by Public Health Ontario and Halton Region Public Health, the province is seeing evidence of an increase of COVID-19 transmission in the community.

Halton Region Public Health continues to monitor indicators, including wastewater viral signals. The most recent monitoring data shows that Halton Region reported the highest proportion of cases of the BA.2 COVID-19 variant in Ontario.

As a school board, we want to limit the spread of COVID-19 and keep our schools open to provide continuous learning for students, which also supports mental health and well-being.

To support these important goals, I encourage students and staff to wear a high-quality mask (i.e., good fit and filtration) when indoors in schools and to get vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19 as soon as you are eligible.

In our schools we have improved ventilation and we continue to provide enhanced cleaning in all our schools. We have made masks and Rapid Antigen Tests available. All students learning in-person and staff must continue to complete the Government of Ontario online COVID-19 school screening tool prior to attending school each day.

With this information in mind, it is important for all families and staff to consider their individual risk, the risks to those around them, and to make informed choices to keep themselves, their family and the community safe.

I wish all HDSB families a safe and relaxing long-weekend.

Sincerely,

Curtis Ennis

Director of Education

Pronouns: he/him

March 18, 2022

Reminders about Updated COVID-19 Measures

Dear HDSB families,

We hope you have had a relaxing and safe Spring Break. Before we welcome students learning in-person back to school next week, we are writing to provide you with a few reminders about the updated guidance from the Ministry of Education that will begin to take effect Monday, March 21.

International travel: Families returning from international travel are reminded of the following requirements from the Government of Canada:

Individuals must wear a mask at all times when in public spaces (including schools and child care) for 14 days upon return to Canada. Students returning from international travel will be required to wear a mask at school for 14 days.
Maintain a list of all close contacts for 14 days upon return to Canada.
Monitor for signs and symptoms of COVID-19 for 14 days upon return to Canada.

Masking

As announced last week, masks will no longer be required for students, staff and visitors in schools, school board offices and on student transportation. Masks are still required for the following:

Individuals who test positive for COVID-19 will have to self-isolate for a minimum of five days. They can return to school following isolation requirements and will be required to wear a mask for 10 days after exposure.
Close contacts and household contacts of individuals with COVID-19 are required to wear a mask for 10 days after exposure even if they are not required to self-isolate.
Individuals returning from international travel must wear a mask for 14 days upon return.

We know that many students and staff may choose to continue to wear masks at times, or consistently, for the remainder of the school year. Masks will continue to be available for students and staff who wish to continue to wear them. We ask all students and families to be respectful of the decisions of others to continue wearing or not wearing a mask. Schools will continue to be mask-friendly environments.

Isolation/monitoring requirements

Individuals with symptoms of COVID-19 are presumed to have COVID-19, whether or not this is confirmed by a Rapid Antigen/PCR Test, and should self-isolate immediately.
Household members who live with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 or who has symptoms must follow the instructions provided through the COVID-19 school screening tool.
For more information, refer to:

COVID-19 school screening requirements: All students learning in person must continue to complete the Government of Ontario online COVID-19 school screening tool prior to attending school each day. Providing daily confirmation of completing the screening tool will no longer be required. The screening tool has been updated to reflect updated isolation and self-monitoring requirements.

We understand students and families may have questions about the updated COVID-19 measures. We want to assure you that implementing these updated measures will be done with sensitivity, with the mental health and well-being of students and staff a priority. Students can feel confident they are returning to the same, familiar classrooms they left prior to Spring Break. While grouping students together to ensure physical distancing and limit exposure is no longer required, whole-school assemblies and/or school events will not be the first step for schools as we introduce these updated measures.

Schools will be looking at ways to re-culture the school environment to implement the updated measures alongside best practices learned over the past two years. For example, the ability for some meetings (e.g., School Council, parent-teacher conferences, etc.) to be held virtually has enhanced accessibility and increased participation.

Please view the March 17 letter from Dr. Hamidah Meghani, Medical Officer of Health, Halton Region, with important information for Halton families about masking, international travel, daily screening, isolation requirements, cohorting and COVID-19 vaccinations. In Halton, 87 per cent of residents (five years of age and older) have had at least two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Mental health and well-being

The mental health of our students and families remains especially important at this time. We encourage you to view the HDSB Mental Health & Well-Being webpage which has information for parents/guardians and students on mental health, ways to support positive mental health and well-being and how to get additional support at school and in the community.

Further information

Please contact your school for more information
View the updated HDSB COVID-19 webpage
Check out our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) webpage
Follow the HDSB on social media (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram)

Past COVID-19/Reopening Schools Updates for Families

March 10, 2022 - updates which will take effect following the Spring Break

March 10, 2022

Dear HDSB families,

On Wednesday, March 9, the Government of Ontario announced that some COVID-19 health and safety measures will be lifted effective Monday, March 21. These changes impact all Ontario schools. Please view the following updates which will take effect following the Spring Break.

International travel requirements

As a reminder, upon return from international travel, the Government of Canada requires individuals to wear a mask at all times when in public spaces (including schools and child care), maintain a list of all close contacts for 14 days upon return to Canada and monitor for signs and symptoms of COVID-19. The COVID-19 school screening tool has been updated to align with recent changes made to federal travel requirements.

Masking

In alignment with community masking requirements, masks will no longer be required for students, staff and visitors in schools, school board offices and on student transportation. We know that many students and staff may choose to continue to wear masks at times, or consistently for the remainder of the school year. Masks will continue to be available for students and staff who wish to continue to wear them.

Cohorting and physical distancing requirements

Grouping students together and ensuring physical distancing to limit exposure is no longer required in classrooms or during outdoor breaks. School assemblies may resume and shared spaces such as libraries, tech labs, music rooms, etc. can be used without distancing.

Isolation requirements

Individuals with symptoms of COVID-19 are presumed to have COVID-19, whether or not this is confirmed by a Rapid Antigen/PCR Test, and they should self-isolate immediately.
NEW: Household members without symptoms of COVID-19 who live with a confirmed case or someone with symptoms, are no longer required to isolate if they:

are 17 or younger and fully vaccinated,
are 18+ and fully vaccinated and have received their COVID-19 booster, OR
have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 90 days and completed their isolation period.

These individuals are required to self-monitor for 10 days after exposure. Follow the guidance provided in the COVID-19 school screening tool.

Children under five without symptoms who live with a confirmed case or someone with symptoms are required to isolate for five days.

Refer to the COVID-19 Symptoms and Self-Isolation/Self-Monitoring Guidelines for Families for isolation requirements.

Report the absence for each day via SchoolMessenger or call the school.

COVID-19 school screening requirements

All students learning in person must continue to complete the Government of Ontario online COVID-19 school screening tool prior to attending school each day. Providing daily confirmation of completing the screening tool will no longer be required. The screening tool has been updated to reflect updated isolation and self-monitoring requirements.

COVID-19 case and contact management

If school absence rates rise to approximately 30 per cent (above baseline), principals will continue to notify Halton Region Public Health and families will be made aware. Schools will continue to report absence rates to the Ministry of Education daily. This data is available at Ontario.ca.

Graduations/End of school year celebrations

At this time, these activities will be able to occur. Schools will move forward with planning for these end-of-year celebrations. Future communication will be provided by schools.

Rapid Antigen Tests

Rapid Antigen Tests will continue to be available for students when they return to school following an absence due to illness or if they are dismissed from school after developing symptoms during the day.

Further information

Please contact your school for more information.
View the updated HDSB COVID-19 webpage
Check out our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) webpage

Follow the HDSB on social media (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram)

Feb. 2, 2022 COVID-19 Update for all HDSB Families

Feb. 2, 2022

COVID-19 Update for all HDSB Families

Dear HDSB families,
We are writing to inform you about revised health and safety procedures for students learning in-person.

Distribution of Rapid Antigen Tests

Going forward, the following strategy will be used to distribute Rapid Antigen Tests to students learning in-person:

Two Rapid Antigen Tests will be provided to students when they return to school following an absence due to illness or if they are dismissed from school after developing symptoms during the day. This applies to students who have used the Rapid Antigen Tests provided to them in January.
Schools will inform families of how these tests will be distributed.

NEW: If you test positive on a Rapid Antigen Test, do not use another Rapid Antigen Test for 30 days. This is in accordance with updated guidance from the Chief Medical Officer of Health.

For instructions on how to use a Rapid Antigen Test, please refer to these resources:

Isolation requirements

Please refer to the COVID-19 Symptoms & Isolation Guidelines for updated isolation requirements and to view examples of household isolation scenarios.
NEW:

Individuals who have tested positive (on a Rapid Antigen or PCR Test) within the last 90 days (since Dec. 20, 2021) follow the isolation requirements for a fully vaccinated individual which is five days.
If someone gets sick, and someone else in the household becomes ill within the next 10 days, it is not considered a new infection and needs to be treated as part of the same exposure.
If someone tested positive for COVID-19 after Dec. 20, 2021, and is then exposed to someone with COVID-19, they are not required to isolate for 90 days from their symptom onset date/test date.
If someone has symptoms of COVID-19, the recommendation is still to isolate and test if they have access to testing.

The COVID-19 school screening tool will be updated to reflect these changes by the end of this week.

Travel requirements

As a reminder, students who are under 12 years of age and unvaccinated cannot attend school for 14 days following international travel. Please refer to the Government of Canada travel guidance for more information.

COVID-19 school screening requirements

As a reminder, students learning in-person must complete COVID-19 school screening tool prior to attending school each day.

Further information:

View the updated HDSB COVID-19 webpage COVID-19 information and protocols
Check out our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) webpage
Follow HDSB on social media (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram)

Jan. 21, 2022 - COVID-19 Vaccine Walk-in Appointments

Jan. 21, 2022

COVID-19 Vaccine Walk-in Appointments

Dear HDSB families,

Please view the below letter from Halton Region Public Health regarding walk-in appointment options at COVID-19 vaccine clinics for 5-11 year olds and 12-17 year olds. View the Jan. 21, 2022 letter from Halton Region Public Health.

Jan 21, 2022 - Letter from Halton Region Public Health

Jan. 18, 2022 Return to School Reminders

Jan. 18, 2022

Return to School Reminders

Dear HDSB Families,

We are excited to welcome Halton District School Board students back to in-person and virtual learning tomorrow (Wednesday, Jan. 19). We understand these last two days have been hectic, but we are eager and prepared to welcome students to school tomorrow (in-person and virtually).

As a reminder, there are new health and safety procedures to ensure the return to in-person learning is as safe as possible. These include new COVID-19 school screening requirements, isolation requirements, COVID-19 case and contact management and the distribution of Rapid Antigen Tests, which were outlined in the Jan. 13, 2022 COVID-19 Update for Families. Please review this update for information.

As we prepare to welcome in-person learners back to school tomorrow, here are a few reminders:

Students learning in-person must complete and show they have passed the Ontario Government COVID-19 school screening tool. Providing daily confirmation of completing the screening tool will continue to be required until further notice. Prior to the winter break, your school provided information on how this confirmation should be presented daily.
Refer to the COVID-19 Symptoms & Isolation Guidelines for new isolation requirements and to view examples of household isolation scenarios.
Masks remain a requirement for HDSB students learning in-person. Three-ply masks are available to students who wish to wear them.
Book a vaccine online at halton.ca/COVIDvaccines.

Families of students who take the school bus should check the Halton Student Transportation Services (HSTS) website at haltonbus.ca or the bus app for possible route cancellations or delays due to high rates of driver shortages as a result of COVID-19 isolation requirements.

Further information

Please contact your school for more information.
Check out our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) webpage
For COVID-19 information and protocols, please visit the HDSB COVID-19 webpage
Follow HDSB on social media (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram)

We look forward to seeing you tomorrow!

Sincerely,

Curtis Ennis
Director of Education
Halton District School Board
Pronouns: he/him

Jan. 13, 2022 - Students return to in-person learning Monday, Jan. 17

Jan. 13, 2022

Students return to in-person learning Monday, Jan. 17

Dear HDSB families,

The Ontario Ministry of Education has confirmed that elementary and secondary students will return to in-person learning on Monday, Jan. 17. As a result, HDSB schools along with most Before & After School Child Care programs will be open to students who are learning in-person on Monday, Jan. 17. All students previously learning virtually/remotely prior to the winter break will continue in virtual learning.

Before we welcome our in-person learners back to school, here are some important new health and safety procedures and reminders to ensure the return to in-person learning is as safe as possible.

COVID-19 school screening requirements

All students learning in person must present daily confirmation that they have completed the Government of Ontario online COVID-19 school screening tool. Providing daily confirmation of completing the screening tool will continue to be required until further notice. Prior to the winter break, your school provided information on how this confirmation should be presented daily.

Isolation requirements

Individuals with symptoms of COVID-19 are presumed to have COVID-19, whether or not this is confirmed by a Rapid Antigen/PCR Test and should self-isolate immediately.
All household members (regardless of vaccination status) will also need to isolate when anyone in the household is isolating (i.e., they have symptoms or have a positive Rapid Antigen or PCR Test).
Refer to the COVID-19 Symptoms and Isolation Guidelines for Families for isolation requirements and to view an example of a household isolation scenario.

Report the absence for each day via SchoolMessenger or call the school.

COVID-19 Case and Contact Management

As a result of the new Omicron variant and how quickly it is spreading, the Ontario Ministry of Health has revised case and contact management processes. We continue to follow the direction of the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education regarding case and contact management including:

Confirmation of COVID-19 no longer requires a PCR or Rapid Antigen Test. Individuals with symptoms of COVID-19 are presumed to have COVID-19.
Families will no longer receive communication from Halton Region Public Health or the HDSB regarding COVID-19 cases in schools.
In the event of a case of COVID-19, class dismissals may no longer be required.
Parents/students are not required to report a positive Rapid Antigen or PCR Test to the school.
If school absenteeism rises to approximately 30%, principals will notify Halton Region Public Health.

Rapid Antigen Tests

Beginning the week of Jan. 17, Rapid Antigen Tests will be available at school to students learning in-person through a phased-approach, with priority access given to elementary students and staff followed by secondary students. Two tests will be provided for students and staff to use 24-48 hours apart if they experience COVID-19 symptoms. If the two consecutive Rapid Antigen Tests (taken 24-48 hours apart) are negative (or one PCR test if available) and the individual’s symptoms have improved, they can return to school. Isolating student household members who are still well and have not developed COVID-19 symptoms may also return to school.

For instructions on how to use a Rapid Antigen Test, please refer to these resources:

PCR Self-Collection Test Kits

If students or staff develop COVID-19 symptoms at school, they will be provided with a take-home PCR self-collection test kit. Further information will be provided to families by schools. Schools were provided a limited supply of these kits. Any new PCR self-collection kits provincially available will be directed to health care and high-risk settings.

Sports and extracurricular activities

Based on advice from the Ontario Chief Medical Officer of Health, indoor high-contact and high-intensity extracurricular activities will continue to be paused to ensure the health and well-being of students.

Cohorting for elementary students (Kindergarten - Grade 8)

Elementary students will continue to be cohorted in groups during recess and outdoor breaks.

Return devices to schools

Students returning to in-person learning on Monday are asked to return Board-owned technology and resources. Please contact your school if you have questions.

Masking requirements

Masks remain a requirement for HDSB staff and for students learning in-person. The HDSB has received three-ply masks for students and non-fit-tested N95 masks for school staff. The three-ply masks are available for students who wish to wear them.

Upgrades to school ventilation

The HDSB has been upgrading school heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems as part of our regular renewal plan over several years and taken on targeted enhancements through COVID-19 Resilient Infrastructure Stream (CVRIS) funding. Information and FAQs about ventilation and HVAC upgrades in HDSB schools can be viewed on our Ventilation webpage. The HDSB has deployed HEPA air purifiers in priority order to support schools with limited mechanical ventilation, to support program needs where students may be unmasked, and then further to support student and staff use of larger spaces such as gyms and libraries. As announced by the Ministry of Education on Dec. 31, 2021, additional HEPA air purifiers will be distributed in schools to supplement ventilation and air quality in schools.

COVID-19 vaccinations

Vaccination remains the province’s best defence against the highly transmissible Omicron variant. For information about COVID-19 vaccines and to book an appointment, visit the Halton Region COVID-19 Vaccines webpage. To book an appointment for 5 to 11 year old children, visit the Halton Region COVID-19 Vaccines for 5 to 11 year olds webpage.

In Halton currently, 61% of 5-11 year olds have received one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and 95% of 12-17 year olds have received two doses. The HDSB will be working with Halton Region Public Health to establish school-based COVID-19 vaccine clinics at select HDSB schools, as directed by the Ministry of Education. Parent/guardian consent will be required and consent forms will be sent home with students. More information will be provided when these clinics are set-up.

Mental health resources

Further information

Please contact your school for more information. School offices are open.
For COVID-19 information and protocols, please visit the HDSB COVID-19 webpage
Follow HDSB on social media (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram)

Jan. 3, 2022 - All students move to remote learning

Jan. 3, 2022

All students move to remote learning until at least Jan. 14, 2022

Dear HDSB families,

As announced by the Government of Ontario today, students will switch to teacher-led remote learning on Wednesday, Jan. 5 until at least Friday, Jan. 14, 2022.
Teachers will connect with students & families

Elementary teachers will connect with students and families prior to Wednesday, Jan. 5 to provide students with a link to a Google Meet for teacher-led real-time (synchronous) learning to begin Wednesday morning. Secondary teachers will post meeting links for students in Brightspace. All students previously learning virtually/remotely prior to the winter break will continue in virtual learning as before.

Schedules & reminders

The minimum daily amount of real-time (synchronous) learning will be 180 minutes for Kindergarten students and 225 minutes for students in Grade 1-12.

Elementary students (Kindergarten - Grade 8)

Elementary remote learning days will follow the current school schedule/timetable; this applies to both students who were learning remotely or in person prior to the winter break.
The length of the instructional day remains unchanged. Start and end times and daily schedules will remain the same as in-person learning.
There is no change to the school schedule for students already learning virtually/remotely prior to the winter break.

Secondary students (Grade 9-12)

Secondary remote learning days will follow the current school schedule/timetable; this applies to both students in home schools and students in the Virtual Secondary School (VSS).
Most student co-op placements will continue as they are aligned with public health guidelines. For any co-op placements impacted by the return to the Modified Step Two of the Ontario Roadmap to Reopen, students will be provided alternative work-related materials by their teacher so their learning can continue.

Technology for home use

Schools will communicate with families regarding the distribution of school-based technology (Chromebooks) and coordinate curbside pick-up times for families. Please note that devices will be provided based on need and availability and may take time to distribute.

Technology support is available for families through the following online HDSB resources:

Students with significant special education needs

As part of the government’s efforts to protect the most vulnerable, school boards will, where possible, provide in-person support for students with special education needs who cannot be accommodated through remote learning. Students with significant special education needs including those in Life Skills, Communication classes, Community Pathway Program may attend school in person during this time. Transportation will be provided for those who normally qualify for it. Further information will be provided by your child’s school.

Reminders for students with significant special education needs who will be learning in person

Students learning in person must present daily confirmation that they have completed the Government of Ontario online COVID-19 school screening tool. Providing daily confirmation of completing the screening tool will continue to be required until further notice. Prior to the winter break, your school provided information on how this confirmation should be presented daily. As a reminder, anyone feeling ill should not attend school.
Families are encouraged to conduct their remaining Rapid Antigen Tests with their children prior to returning to in-person learning on Jan. 5 and to keep their child home if they receive a positive test result. These kits were provided to students learning in person prior to the winter break.

Student attendance

Student attendance will be taken as normal during this remote learning period. Therefore, we request that parents/guardians continue to follow the regular processes for reporting student absences.

Mental health resources

The mental health and well-being of our students and families is especially important at this time. Please view the information and resources on the HDSB Mental Health & Well-Being webpage.

Further information

For COVID-19 information and protocols, please visit the HDSB COVID-19 webpage
Follow HDSB on social media (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram)

Dec. 31, 2021 - Important COVID-19 Update for HDSB Families for January 2022

Dec. 31, 2021

Important COVID-19 Update for HDSB Families for January 2022

As announced by the Government of Ontario yesterday, the winter break will be extended for students. Students (in-person and remote) will return to school on Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2022.This is due to increased COVID-19 cases and the need for additional health and safety measures to create more layers of protection at schools.

School Screening Verification Requirements for January 2022

All students learning in-person must present daily confirmation that they have completed the Government of Ontario online COVID-19 school screening tool. Providing daily confirmation of completing the screening tool will continue to be required until further notice. Prior to the winter break, your school provided information on how this confirmation should be presented daily. As a reminder, anyone feeling ill should not attend school.

COVID-19 Case and Contact Management

As a result of the new Omicron variant and how quickly it is spreading, the Ontario Ministry of Health has revised case and contact management processes. These changes include:

School staff and families will no longer receive communication from Halton Region Public Health or the HDSB regarding confirmed cases in schools.
In the event of a confirmed case of COVID-19, class dismissals may no longer be required.
Confirmation of COVID-19 no longer requires PCR testing through provincial Assessment Centres. The revised approach to confirmation of COVID-19 presumes symptoms and/or results from PCR or RAT self-collection kits are indicators of COVID-19.
The Ministry of Education will not be reporting COVID-19 cases in schools on their website and the HDSB will not be reporting confirmed cases on the HDSB COVID-19 Advisory.

Isolation Requirements

Individuals who have tested positive on a COVID-19 test (PCR, rapid molecular, or Rapid Antigen Test) should self-isolate immediately.
Individuals who are presumed to have COVID-19 based on their symptoms should self-isolate.
All household members(regardless of their vaccination status) will need to self-isolate when someone in the household is isolating with symptoms or is a confirmed case.
Individuals 12+ years of age AND fully vaccinated OR 11 years old or younger, regardless of their vaccination status must isolate at leastfive daysfrom symptom onset and until symptoms have been improving for 24 hours (or 48 hours if gastrointestinal symptoms) - whichever is longer in duration.
Individuals 12+ years of age AND either partially vaccinated or unvaccinated OR immune-compromised, regardless of age, must isolate for 10 days from symptom onset.

To verify vaccination status, please refer to: Fully vaccinated status in Ontario.

PCR Self-Collection Test Kits

Beginning in January 2022, take-home PCR self-collection test kits will be provided to students learning in person who have symptoms of COVID-19. An email will be sent through SchoolMessenger to all families about the PCR tests in January 2022.

COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) Kits

Families are encouraged to conduct their remaining Rapid Antigen Tests with their children prior to returning to in-person learning on Jan. 5 and to stay home if their child receives a positive test result. These kits were provided to students learning in person prior to the winter break.

Pausing sports and extracurricular activities

Based on advice from the Ontario Chief Medical Officer of Health, indoor high-contact and high-intensity activities will be temporarily paused to ensure the health and well-being of students. Further information will be provided in upcoming communication to students and families.

Improved ventilation

The Ministry of Education is deploying additional standalone HEPA filter units to school boards to improve ventilation and air quality in schools.

Masking requirements

Masks (cloth or medical) remain a requirement for HDSB students learning in-person in Kindergarten to Grade 12.

Remote/Virtual Learning Requests

The Ministry of Education has requested that school boards work with individual families concerning requests to switch to remote learning. The HDSB will be communicating more details about requests to switch to remote learning next week. In the interim, students will continue to have access to class materials through Google Classroom (elementary) or Brightspace (secondary).

Please contact your school for more information. School offices will reopen on Monday, Jan. 3.

Dec. 13, 2021 - Winter Break Information for HDSB Families

Dec. 13, 2021

Winter Break Information for HDSB Families

We are writing to provide you with information to help ensure a safe return to school in January following the winter break.

This letter has been translated into the following languages:

العربية (Arabic) हिंदी (Hindi) ਪੰਜਾਬੀ (Punjabi) 中文 (Simplified Chinese) Français (French) Español (Spanish) اردو (Urdu)

For other languages, click here.

COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Screening Kits

The Government of Ontario is providing take-home COVID-19 rapid antigen screening kits to all Ontario students learning in-person. By Thursday, Dec. 16, all HDSB students will receive a sealed kit containing five (5) tests to bring home with them for use during the winter break. Families are encouraged to conduct the rapid antigen tests with their child over the winter break.

Rapid antigen tests are only to be used to test individuals who are asymptomatic (i.e., those who do not have any symptoms of COVID-19 and have not had exposure to a confirmed case of COVID-19).

Families are asked to review the following important information on the COVID-19 rapid antigen screening kits, including when and how to use the tests:

Information for families on the COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Screening Kits
How to use a COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test at Home
Video - Rapid antigen testing for asymptomatic students

Hardcopies of these two documents will be given to students when they receive the screening kit.

School Screening Verification Requirements for January 2022

For the first two weeks of school following the winter break (Jan. 3-14, 2022), all Kindergarten - Grade 12 students must present daily confirmation that they have completed the Government of Ontario online COVID-19 school screening tool. Your school will provide information on how this confirmation should be presented daily. Completing the screening tool daily will continue to be required after Jan. 14.

As a reminder, anyone feeling ill should not attend school. All students, staff and visitors must be screened for symptoms of illness every day before attending school. Parents/guardians (and students 18+) must complete the Government of Ontario online COVID-19 school screening tool for each child prior to attending school each day.

HDSB will continue to inform families about COVID-19 cases

Over the winter break, from Dec. 18-31, 2021, the HDSB, along with Halton Region Public Health, will continue to inform families and staff about confirmed cases of COVID-19 in schools if students/staff were exposed to a positive case during school time. Families are reminded to check their email regularly. The COVID-19 Advisory on the HDSB website (hdsb.ca), which lists confirmed cases and classroom closures in HDSB schools, will not be updated over the winter break.

If your child tests positive for COVID-19 during the winter break, please contact Halton Region Public Health directly by calling 3-1-1.

We wish all HDSB families a safe and enjoyable winter break.

Sincerely,
Halton District School Board

Nov. 22, 2021 - Secondary school model changes to four courses per day on Monday, Nov. 29, 2021

Dear HDSB secondary students and families,

Last week, the Ministry of Education announced that Ontario school boards can move to a four-course per day schedule for secondary schools, in consultation with local public health units. We know that many students, staff and families have been looking forward to this announcement.

We are pleased to inform you that beginning Monday, Nov. 29, all secondary schools in the Halton District School Board will change to a four-course per day schedule. A four-course per day schedule is referred to as a traditional Semester Model. The timing of this change for next Monday ensures we will keep the balance between Week 1 and Week 2 courses.

As you know, since September 2021, HDSB schools have followed the Modified Semester Model as well as offered co-curricular activities for students learning in-person. Given the high rates of vaccination among youth aged 12 to 17 and the diligence among students and staff in practising COVID-19 health and safety protocols, we have seen a reduction in the number and frequency of COVID-19 cases among secondary school students, and we are now able to safely move to a Semester Model. This decision is in accordance with Ministry of Education requirements and has been made with consultation from Halton Region Public Health.

As a reminder, families of secondary students who wish to switch learning models (in-person/remote) in Semester 2 (effective Feb. 7, 2022) must complete the Change in Learning Model Form between Nov. 22 - Dec. 1, 2021.

Thank you for your patience and understanding, and for continuing to follow COVID-19 health and safety protocols to keep our schools safe.

Note: This message does not apply to Gary Allan Learning Centre students.

Nov. 22, 2021 - Change in Learning Model Form for Secondary Students (Grade 9-12)

This letter has been translated into the following languages:

العربية (Arabic) हिंदी (Hindi) ਪੰਜਾਬੀ (Punjabi) 中文 (Simplified Chinese) Français (French) Español (Spanish) اردو (Urdu)

For other languages, click here.

Dear HDSB families of secondary students (Grade 9-12),

Families of secondary students who would like to switch learning models (i.e., in-person to remote/fully online or remote/fully online to in-person) on Feb. 7, 2022 must complete the Change in Learning Model Form. The form is open now until Wednesday, Dec. 1, 2021 at 11:59 p.m. This form is only for families wishing to switch learning models. If you do not wish to switch learning models, please DO NOT complete this form, your child(ren) will remain in the current learning model.

Families of secondary students are encouraged to review the information below prior to completing the form. Please ensure your submission represents your final decision. If you do not complete the Change in Learning Model Form by Wednesday, Dec. 1 at 11:59 p.m., you will not be able to switch learning models.

If you wish to switch from in-person to remote/fully online learning, you will need to acknowledge ALL of the following statements on the request form:

Students will learn fully online.
School start and end times will follow the HDSB Virtual Secondary School schedule.
The elective courses on the student’s current timetable may not be available. The Virtual Secondary School will work with students to find alternate elective courses which may result in a change in timetable placement of all courses.
The following specialized optional programs will not be offered virtually: Accelerated Learning Program, International Baccalaureate, Advanced Placement, SHSM, LEAP and I-STEM.
A full complement of French Immersion and Gifted cluster courses may not be available in changing learning models.
Remote learning will be taught by staff who may not be from the home secondary school.
Students learning remotely will not be permitted to participate at their home school in-person school clubs or teams. Students will have the opportunity to participate in virtual school clubs or teams.
Students in their graduating year will graduate from their designated home school (if applicable).
Students attending the Virtual Secondary School must be residents of and be living in Halton.
Students will be removed from the current transportation route (if applicable)

If you wish to switch from remote/fully online to in-person learning, you will need to acknowledge the following statements on the request form:

Students attend in person for the full day, five days per week, following the regular start and end times at their home school.
The elective courses on the student’s current timetable may not be available. The designated home school will work with students to find alternate elective courses and this is likely to result in a change in timetable placement of all courses.
Students learning in-person will be able to participate in school clubs and teams at their home school.
Students are required to complete daily self-screening using the Government of Ontario’s COVID-19 School Screening Tool prior to arriving at school each day.

Complete the Change in Learning Model Form for Secondary Students now: https://bit.ly/LearningModelSEC

Change in Learning Model Form - Secondary Students

Students switching learning models will transition to their chosen learning model on Monday, Feb. 7, 2022. Students are expected to continue in their current learning model until that date.

For families with custody agreements and shared decision-making regarding educational decisions, the decision must be agreed upon by both parties. Please contact your child(ren)’s school to verify.

Nov. 15, 2021 - Information on Switching Learning Models (in-person/remote)

This letter has been translated into the following languages:

العربية (Arabic) हिंदी (Hindi) ਪੰਜਾਬੀ (Punjabi) 中文 (Simplified Chinese) Français (French) Español (Spanish) اردو (Urdu)

For other languages, click here.

Dear Families of Secondary Students (Grade 9-12),

We are writing to provide information for families of secondary students who would like to switch learning models (i.e., in-person to remote/fully online or remote/fully online to in-person) in Semester 2 (effective Feb. 7, 2022).

Families who would like to switch learning models must complete the Change in Learning Model Form according to the timelines below:

Secondary students (Grade 9 - 12)

Monday, Nov. 22, 2021 - Form sent to families of secondary students
Wednesday, Dec. 1, 2021 (11:59 p.m.) - Deadline for form to be submitted
Monday, Feb. 7, 2022 - Start new learning model

Students are expected to continue in their current learning model until the Feb. 7, 2022 transition date.

The Change in Learning Model Form will be emailed to parents/guardians of secondary students and students 18 or older on Monday, Nov. 22.

The form that will be sent to you is only for families wishing to switch learning models. If you do not wish to switch learning models, please DO NOT complete the form.

Further Information

For more information, please contact your child’s school. To learn more about the two learning models, please view the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on our September 2021 Plan website.

We will continue to keep you informed through the HDSB website, SchoolMessenger emails and social media (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram).

Note: This message does not apply to Gary Allan Learning Centre students. Students/families will receive messaging directly from the Gary Allan Learning Centres main office.

Sept. 9, 2021 - Change in Learning Model Form for Elementary Students (Kindergarten - Grade 8)

Dear HDSB families of elementary students (Kindergarten - Grade 8),

Families of elementary students who would like to switch learning models (i.e., in-person to remote/fully online or remote/fully online to in-person) on October 12 must complete the Change in Learning Model Form. The form is open now until Thursday, Sept. 16 at 11:59 p.m. This form is only for families wishing to switch learning models. If you do not wish to switch learning models, please DO NOT complete this form, your child(ren) will remain in the current learning model.

Families of elementary students are encouraged to review the information below prior to completing the form. Please ensure your submission represents your final decision. If you do not complete the Change in Learning Model Form by Thursday, Sept. 16 at 11:59 p.m., you will not be able to switch learning models.

If you wish to switch from in-person to remote (fully online) learning, you will need to acknowledge ALL of the following statements on the request form:

My child may be placed in a class that is not with other students from their home school.
My child may be moved to another school with a remote learning class (and would return to their home school for in person learning).
There will be a teacher change for my child.
The instruction may not align with the learning (e.g., strands of learning) my child has been engaged in.
My child will be required to participate online using technology in real-time (synchronously) during the school day (180 min. for Kindergarten; 225 min. for Grade 1 - 8).
My child will be removed from the current transportation route (if applicable).

If you wish to switch from remote (fully online) to in-person learning, you will need to acknowledge the following statements on the request form:

I understand there is a requirement to complete daily self-screening for my child using the Government of Ontario’s COVID-19 School Screening Tool prior to arriving at school each day.
There will be a teacher change for my child.
The instruction may not align with the learning (e.g., strands of learning) my child has been engaged in.

Complete the Change in Learning Model Form for Elementary Students now: https://bit.ly/ElemLearningModel

Change in Learning Model Form - ELEMENTARY Students

Students switching learning models will transition to their chosen learning model on Tuesday, Oct. 12. Students are expected to continue in their current learning model until that date.

For families with custody agreements and shared decision-making regarding educational decisions, the decision must be agreed upon by both parties. Please contact your child(ren)’s school to verify.

Further information

For more information, please contact your child’s school. To learn more about the two learning models, please view the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on our September 2021 website.

We will continue to keep you informed through the HDSB website, SchoolMessenger emails and social media (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram).

Aug. 20, 2021 - HDSB September 2021 Plan

Dear HDSB families,

We are writing to share with you the Halton District School Board’s September 2021 Plan for Students and Families.

The HDSB’s September 2021 Plan outlines the measures we will be following for the safety and well-being of our students and staff. This plan has been developed in consultation with Halton Region Public Health and adheres to the Ministry of Education’s COVID-19: Health, safety and operational guidance for schools (2021-2022) and the Ministry of Education’s Memo: Planning for the 2021-2022 School Year.

We encourage all families to review this plan prior to the start of the school year. For more information, please view our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) or contact your child’s school. School offices reopen Monday, Aug. 23.

September 2021 Online Information Session for HDSB Families

HDSB families are invited to join an information session about September 2021 with Dr. Hamidah Meghani, Commissioner and Medical Officer of Health, Halton Region, along with senior Halton District School Board staff. Dr. Meghani and HDSB staff will answer submitted questions from families at an online information session on Thursday, Aug. 26 at 7 p.m. at www.hdsb.ca.

After reading the September 2021 Plan, families with questions may submit them prior to, and during the session, through the following form: https://bit.ly/September2021HDSB.

View the livestream of the information session at www.hdsb.ca.

For those unable to view the livestream on Thursday evening, a full recording of the information session will be posted on our website following the event. Closed captioning will be available as part of the recorded copy, after the livestream has concluded. It will not be available during the livestream.

Sincerely,
Halton District School Board

August 13, 2021 - Important Update on the September 2021 HDSB School Plan

Aug. 13, 2021 - Important Update on the September 2021 HDSB School Plan

Dear HDSB families,

We hope you and your families are keeping well. We are writing to inform you of important updates to our September 2021 School Plan.

The HDSB has been reviewing the guidelines provided by the Ministry of Education last week and developing the HDSB-specific plan in consultation with Halton Region Public Health. We will share the full September 2021 plan with all families on Friday, Aug. 20, 2021 by email and it will also be available on our hdsb.ca website.

As the first day of school approaches, there also seems to be growing concern as the daily number of COVID-19 cases is rising. Be assured, the HDSB plans will contain a number of layered measures that will work together to make our in-school learning experiences for all children as safe as we possibly can while offering engaging learning and opportunities for our students.

September 2021 School Info Session for Families: Thursday, Aug. 26 at 7 p.m.

You are invited to join an information session on the September 2021 School Plan with Dr. Hamidah Meghani, Commissioner and Medical Officer of Health, Halton Region, along with senior Halton District School Board staff. Dr. Meghani and HDSB staff will answer questions from families in a virtual information session on Thursday, Aug. 26 at 7 p.m. View this livestream session at www.hdsb.ca.

After reviewing the September 2021 School Plan, families will be encouraged to submit questions prior to, and during, the information session. A link to an online form will be provided when the plan is released.

For those unable to view the livestream on Thursday evening, a full recording of the information session will be posted on our website following the event. Closed captioning will be available as part of the recorded copy, after the livestream has concluded. It will not be available during the livestream.

We encourage all families to pay close attention to all updates shared by us and your school.

Messages from the Minister of Education

December 10, 2021 Message to Ontario's Parents - English
January 2, 2021 Message to Ontario's Parents - English , French

Board Office

Halton District School Board
J.W. Singleton Education Centre
2050 Guelph Line
Burlington, Ontario, L7P 5A8

Numbers

Phone: 905-335-3663
Fax: 905-335-9802

Links

Email Us

COVID-19 Updates for Families

​​​Masking and vaccines encouraged to limit spread of COVID-19​

April 14, 2022

​​​​​​March 18, 2022​​

Past COVID-19/Reopening Schools Updates for Families

March 10, 2022​​

International travel requirements

Masking

Cohorting and physical distancing requirements

Isolation requirements

COVID-19 school screening requirements

COVID-19 case and contact management

Graduations/End of school year celebrations

Rapid Antigen Tests

Further information

COVID-19 Update for all HDSB Families

Distribution of Rapid Antigen Tests

Isolation requirements

Travel requirements

COVID-19 school screening requirements

Further information:

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Jan. 21, 2022​

COVID-19 Vaccine Walk-in Appointments​

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Jan. 18​, 2022​

Return to School Reminders

Further information

​​​​​​Jan. 13, 2022​

Students return to in-person learning Monday, Jan. 17​

COVID-19 school screening requirements

Isolation requirements ​

COVID-19 Case and Contact Management​​

Rapid Antigen Tests

PCR Self-Collection Test Kits

Sports and extracurricular activities

Cohorting for elementary students (Kindergarten - Grade 8)

Return devices to schools

Masking requirements

Upgrades to school ventilation

COVID-19 vaccinations

Mental health resources

Further information

​​​​​​​​​​​​​Jan. 3, 2022

All students move to remote learning until at ​least ​Jan. 14, 2022

As announced by the Government of Ontario today, students will switch to teacher-led remote learning on Wednesday, Jan. 5 until at least Friday, Jan. 14, 2022. ​Teachers will connect with students & families

Schedules & reminders

Elementary students (Kindergarten - Grade 8)

Secondary students (Grade 9-12)

Technology for home use

Students with significant special education needs

Student attendance

Mental health resources

Further information

Dec. 31, 2021

Important COVID-19 Update for HDSB Families for January 2022​

School Screening Verification Requirements for January 2022

COVID-19 Case and ​Contact Management​

Isolation Requirements

PCR Self-Collection Test Kits

COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) Kits

Pausing sports and extracurricular activities

Improved ventilation

Masking requirements

Remote/Virtual Learning Requests

COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Screening Kits

School Screening Verification Requirements for January 2022

HDSB will continue to inform families about COVID-19 cases

Dear HDSB secondary students and families,

This letter has been translated into the following languages:

Complete the Change in Learning Model Form for Secondary Students now: https://bit.ly/LearningModelSEC

Secondary students (Grade 9 - 12)

Further Information

Change in Learning Model Form - ELEMENTARY Students​​​​

Further information

Aug. 20, 2021 - HDSB September 2021 Plan

September 2021 Online Information Session for HDSB Families

Aug. 13, 2021 - Important Update on the September 2021 HDSB School Plan​

Masking and vaccines encouraged to limit spread of COVID-19

March 18, 2022

March 10, 2022

Jan. 21, 2022

COVID-19 Vaccine Walk-in Appointments

Jan. 18, 2022

Jan. 13, 2022

Students return to in-person learning Monday, Jan. 17

Isolation requirements

COVID-19 Case and Contact Management

Jan. 3, 2022

All students move to remote learning until at least Jan. 14, 2022

As announced by the Government of Ontario today, students will switch to teacher-led remote learning on Wednesday, Jan. 5 until at least Friday, Jan. 14, 2022.
Teachers will connect with students & families

Important COVID-19 Update for HDSB Families for January 2022

COVID-19 Case and Contact Management

Change in Learning Model Form - ELEMENTARY Students

Aug. 13, 2021 - Important Update on the September 2021 HDSB School Plan