Today is the last day of classes for students until the new year as schools close as a preventative measure to help deal with the Omicron variant.

While Public Health has stated that it is safe for schools to be open, the decision was made to give time to prepare for a potential shift to online learning in the New Year.

No decision has been made as to whether or not online learning will be used when students return in January. However, what is known is that classes will resume on January 4, regardless of the format.

Education Minister Tom Osborne advises that students should take home any needed supplies today in case they have to shift to online learning, including Chromebooks for grades 7 to 12.

Schools will be open for teachers on Tuesday and Wednesday to give them time to make necessary preparations.

As well, Osborne says COVID vaccinations will continue in schools today, and even on the days the schools are closed.

He says parents can bring their child to the school to avail of the previously scheduled appointments.