The CEO of the Newfoundland and Labrador English School District says there has been no decision on closing schools at this point, but parents should be prepared for it.

Tony Stack says any decision to suspend classes on a provincial level is a big decision that involves consultations with health authorities, the Chief Medical Officer, and has to be done in accordance with the provincial government through the Department of Education. Those discussions are underway.

Stack says to stay tuned as it’s a fluid situation, changing hour-to-hour, and there may be more information coming on plans moving forward later today.

The CEO believes they have qualified and diligent facilities staff who know what to do with respect to “common touch surfaces” like door knobs and handrails, and they’re actively and aggressively cleaning every school.

Further, he says every school has the appropriate products to properly cleanse the environment. He says they’re simply following what the Chief Medical Officer has advised to this point.

Stack says that the situation is changing rapidly, and they’ve already cancelled mass gatherings, extracurricular activities, all professional learning and community use.

Teachers’ Association Raises Questions About Policy Disconnect

The Newfoundland and Labrador Teacher’s Association is calling for clarification as to why schools have not yet been closed in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

NLTA President Dean Ingram says teachers are questioning how official public health policy aligns with the decision to keep schools open.

Health officials are encouraging people to practice social distancing, avoiding large gatherings, and enhancing hygiene—something Ingram says does not align with the nature of schools.

Newfoundland and Labrador is the only Atlantic province to not suspend schools as a precaution, the Teachers’ Association wants answers as to why this is the case.