BACK TOSCHOOLGUIDELINESRevised on October 20, 2020

Hello,

On August 5, 2020, we posted our Return to School plan in order to provide parents, students

and staff with details on how we would all safely go back to our classrooms on September 8,

2020.

In keeping with our commitment to provide as much information as we possibly can in a

timely manner, we are now providing additional Back to School Guidelines which offer more

specific details about a variety of subjects including at-home learning, in-school scheduling,

transportation and health and safety protective measures.

We have asked parents to declare by no later than Friday, August 21, 2020 as to whether they

will be sending their children back to school or if they will be opting for At-Home/Remote

Learning. We understand that many parents require more information before making that

important decision, and we have endeavoured to include as much information as we

currently have available in order to assist them with their choice.

Please keep in mind that the information in this document is subject to change, based on any

new directives that we may receive from the provincial government. Models for learning are

also subject to change based on Ministry of Education directives. We are committed to

informing parents as soon as possible if any significant alterations are made to our plans.

After reading the information below, please proceed here to fill out the parent declaration

form by Friday, August 21, 2020, if you have not already done so.

Terry Lyons

Director of Education

WECDSB BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDELINES

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

2. MODELS FOR LEARNING

In-School Learning

At-Home/Remote Learning

Important Information/Dates

1. PARENT DECLARATION - PRE-REGISTRATION

6. SPORTS ACADEMY PROGRAMS

5. MENTAL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING

4. SPECIAL EDUCATION

3. TECHNOLOGICAL DEVICES

8. HEALTH AND SAFETY

Screening

Visitors

Cohorting

Physical Distancing

Hand Hygiene and Respiratory Etiquette

Personal Protective Equipment

Masks

Cleaning

9. OUTBREAK PROTOCOLS

10. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES AND FIELD TRIPS

11. LARGE GATHERINGS

12. TRANSPORTATION

13. JUST FOR ELEMENTARY PARENTS

Scheduling

Notification of Classroom Teacher and

School Arrival and Dismissal Procedures

Classroom Environment

Recess

Lunch

Ontario Student Nutrition Program

Washroom Procedures

Music Programs

Physical Education

Child Care

First-Day Procedures

14. JUST FOR SECONDARY PARENTS

Scheduling

Notice of First Day Procedures

Notice of Schedule

Lunch 

Washroom Procedures

School/Classroom Environment

Cafeterias, Auditoriums, Student Centres

Music

Physical Education

15. CONCLUSION

7. ADULT EDUCATION (ST. MICHAEL’S CATHOLICHIGH SCHOOL)

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REVISED

REVISED

REVISED

REVISED

REVISED

REVISED

REVISED

REVISED

REVISED

During the weeks of August 10 - 21, 2020 parents are required to declare whether their children

will attend school in person beginning September 8th, or opt for At-Home/Remote Learning.

This pre-registration is a requirement for both elementary and secondary students by Friday,

August 21, 2020.

This information will assist in determining enrolment, class sizes, staffing and other important

factors to help support students in-school and learning remotely.

Students who are not pre-registered by Friday, August 21, 2020 may be placed on a wait-list for

In-School Learning. Families will be offered At-Home/Remote Learning until an appropriate

class placement can be provided.

If after filling out the declaration form parents change their minds about which option they

have chosen before the beginning of school on September 8, they must contact their school

office to inform them of the change. Efforts will be made to accommodate the change;

however, there may be a waiting period before students can be placed into the model of their

choice. Please refer to the At-Home/Remote Learning section for specifics.

1. PARENT DECLARATION - PRE-REGISTRATION

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In-School LearningOn July 30, 2020, the Ministry of Education confirmed the following models for return to school

for September 2020:

Elementary (Kindergarten to Grade 8)

Conventional model: Students will attend school five days per week, with one cohort for the full

day, including recess and lunch. Enhanced health and safety protocols will be in place.

As of August 14, the Ministry of Education has permitted school boards to adopt a staggered

start to the first week of the school year, allowing different grades to begin on different days

to allow for students to learn new routines and for new health and safety practices to be

reinforced.

Elementary students will begin school in a staggered manner as indicated below:

Junior Kindergarten (JK) students will be provided staggered start dates beginning September

14.  During the week of September 14, a few JK students from each class will attend each day

along with their SK classmates.  Beginning the week of September 21, all JK students will attend

each day along with their SK classmates.  Individual schools will schedule staggered start

dates for JK students. These dates will be communicated to parents/guardians by their

respective schools.

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2. MODELS FOR LEARNING

Secondary (Grades 9-12)

The first Quadmester begins on September 10, 2020. Orientation days are scheduled for

Thursday, September 10th and Friday, September 11th. Please see the chart on page 6.

Adaptive Model/Modified Day:

Students will attend school on an alternating schedule, in smaller class sizes of approximately

15 students. Schools will operate on a Quadmester schedule. Enhanced health and safety

protocols will be in place.

The secondary school year will be divided into four Quadmesters (each semester divided into

two blocks). Periods 1 and 2 alternate weeks over a four week cycle. Periods 1 and 2 occur for

44 days.

Semester 1 will be divided into two time blocks of approximately nine weeks each: 44 days.

First block: September 8 - November 13 - including 2 days of exams for periods 1 & 2, and two

days of orientation.

Second block: November 16 - February 1 - including 2 days of exams for periods 3 & 4.

Within the first Quadmester, students will take one period, 225 minutes which includes 5 minute

staggered/scheduled breaks within the period.

Each class will be divided into two cohorts. Cohort A and Cohort B will attend school two days

one week and three days the next week. The cohorts will attend school on alternating

Wednesdays. Therefore, students will be in class for five days in a 10 day period. Every effort

will be made to keep siblings within the same cohort.

On the school days in which students are at home, students will be expected to participate in

their Period 1 and 2 classes virtually.

The use of webcams in secondary classrooms will be used to support curriculum delivery for

Cohorts A and B on the days in which students are not in-class. Each day new lessons will be

presented in a sequential manner. Therefore, students must attend both in-class and

participate in virtual lessons within their assigned cohort each week.

Students in both Cohorts A and B will continue their learning through synchronous and

asynchronous learning opportunities for the afternoon 75 minute block which will support

periods 1 and 2 on alternating weeks. Teachers will be available to assist, clarify and provide

guidance and support for students.

As required by the Ministry of Education, student daily schedules must include 300 minutes of

learning opportunities. This will be a combination of in-class and virtual learning that includes

synchronous and asynchronous activities.

2. MODELS FOR LEARNING CONTINUED

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2. MODELS FOR LEARNING CONTINUED

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Ministry of Education definitions:

Synchronous learning: Learning that happens in real time. Synchronous learning involves using

text, video, or voice communication in a way that enables educators and other members of

the school- or board-based team to instruct and connect with students in real time.

Synchronous learning supports the well-being and academic achievement of all students,

including those with special education needs, by providing educators and students with an

interactive and engaging way to learn. It helps teachers provide immediate feedback to

students and enables them to interact with one another.

Asynchronous learning: Learning that is not delivered in real time. Asynchronous learning may

involve students watching pre-recorded video lessons, completing assigned tasks, or

contributing to online discussion boards.

2. MODELS FOR LEARNING CONTINUED

At-Home/Remote LearningThe Ministry of Education has indicated that returning to school in-class will be optional for

the 2020-2021 school year. If not attending in person, students are expected to attend school

remotely. At-Home/Remote Learning will be provided to students whose parents choose not to

send them to school.

The Ministry of Education provides the following definition:

Remote Learning: Learning that occurs when classes are taught at a distance and when

students and educators are not in a conventional classroom setting. Remote Learning takes

place in times of extended interruption to in-person learning – for example, as a result of a

pandemic or natural disaster. Classes can be synchronous or asynchronous and can be

taught online through a Learning Management System (LMS) such as Google Classroom or by

using videoconferencing tools. In some cases, they may be delivered through emails, print

materials, broadcast media, or telephone calls.

During Remote Learning, students and parents/guardians will be provided with a daily

schedule or timetable that includes 300 minutes of learning opportunities, with a combination

of synchronous and asynchronous learning activities. Programming must be based on the full

Ontario curriculum and include opportunities for guided instruction, large- and small-group

learning, synchronous check-ins, and asynchronous independent work.

Teachers will be available to students as they would be if they were face-to-face in a

classroom setting.

The table below outlines the minimum amount of time per day that students, depending on

their grade level, must be provided with synchronous learning as part of their scheduled or

timetabled learning.

2. MODELS FOR LEARNING CONTINUED

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2. MODELS FOR LEARNING CONTINUED

The synchronous learning time requirements outlined in the table above may be divided into

shorter periods throughout the school day. For example, a child in Kindergarten may

participate in an opening exercise for 10 minutes with their whole class, as well as a

combination of whole-group and small-group sessions throughout the school day, and a 10-

minute closing exercise with their class at the end of the school day.

It is expected that synchronous learning will be provided for large and small groups of

students each day, in a manner similar to in-person classroom teaching. Synchronous

learning time may include students working independently and in small groups while

engaged in a virtual classroom with the teacher overseeing their learning and available for

questions.

Families of elementary and secondary students in the At-Home/Remote model will be

provided with a schedule of synchronous (real time) and asynchronous (independent)

learning opportunities. This schedule will be provided in advance to support families with

planning.

A process will be developed to allow for student exemption from synchronous learning. 

Requests for exemption must be made in writing to the school principal.

Students with Individual Education Plans (IEPs) will be supported through Remote Learning.

Educational assistants, resource teacher support and other special education services that

are available in person will also be available online as needed.

Students engaged in Remote Learning will have access to board mental health services.

Services will be provided via Google Meet and/or phone as appropriate. Parents/guardians or

students should contact the principal if/when mental health concerns arise.

Students will be assessed and evaluated on the achievement of the overall curriculum

expectations. Assessment and evaluation practices will align with Ministry guidelines and

include diagnostic, formative and summative assessments.

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2. MODELS FOR LEARNING CONTINUED

A student remains with their regular classroom teacher and participates virtually during all face to face delivery

sessions with the class. In a 44 day quadmester a student who elects virtual delivery is expected to be online 22 days

for 225 minutes of synchronous instruction and the student must further participate in 22 days of

asynchronous/synchronous instruction during the 75 minute afternoon block. Google Meet and Google Classroom

are the primary modes of course delivery.

A student is enrolled in an E-Learning course that is delivered asynchronously using the Ministry of Education's

Desire2Learn platform. In most instances these classes will not be delivered by the student's home school.

Remote Learning - Elementary:

Students engaged in Remote Learning may be assigned a teacher from their home school or from a school within the

board dependent on enrollment and staff availability.

Depending on student requests for Remote Learning, we may be required to create virtual classrooms. If so, students

across the board in similar grades could form a “class” and be assigned to a teacher who will deliver online instruction.

For elementary students engaged in Remote Learning, attendance will be taken daily. Students will be provided with a

daily schedule of subjects/courses, with opportunities for frequent, live contact with a teacher and expectations for

synchronous learning (see table above). Remote Learning will include access to learning materials posted online to

support both synchronous and asynchronous learning opportunities during the day.  Google Classroom will be used for

synchronous and asynchronous learning opportunities for students in Grades 1-8.  Kindergarten educators will use Google

Meet in conjunction with Seesaw to provide synchronous and asynchronous learning opportunities.

Secondary At-Home/ Remote Learning involves one of the following two methods of delivery:

1.

2.

Important Information/Dates

The following factors contributed to the determination of re-entry dates and timelines: alignment with assessment and

evaluation periods in both elementary and secondary; semestered timelines; class sizes and cohorting; and available

staff.

Elementary

Parents/guardians of elementary students who initially opted for At-Home/Remote Learning, but then decide they want to

send their children back to school for In-School Learning, may do so by the following designated entry dates.

Parents/guardians must declare their intention in writing to the school principal in order to opt back into In-School

Learning. Notification must be received no later than two weeks prior to the re-entry date as stated below.

Term 1/Report 1: (important dates)

Final Date to Provide Notification for School Re-entry: Monday, October 19, 2020

Date of Elementary School Re-entry: Monday, November 2, 2020

Final Date to Provide Notification for School Re-entry: Monday, January 18, 2021

Date of Elementary School Re-entry: Monday, February 1, 2021

More information regarding Term 2/Report 2 will be made available at a later date.

Parents/guardians of elementary students who initially opted for In-School Learning, but then decide they want to opt into

At-Home/Remote Learning, must declare their intention in writing to the school principal.  The date available for entry into

a remote learning class is Monday, November 2, 2020.  Notification must be received no later than two weeks prior to the

entry date (Monday, October 19, 2020).  When and where possible, entry into At-Home/Remote Learning may occur prior to

this date.

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Secondary

Parents/guardians of secondary students who initially opted for At-Home/Remote Learning,

but then decide they want to send their children back to school for In-School Learning, may

do so by the following designated entry dates. Parents/guardians must declare their intention

in writing to the school principal in order to opt back into In-School Learning. Notification

must be received no later than two weeks prior to the re-entry date as stated below.

Quadmester 1 & 2: (important dates)

Final Date to Provide Notification for School Re-entry: Monday, November 2, 2020

Date of Secondary School Re-entry: Monday, November 16, 2020

Final Date to Provide Notification for School Re-entry: Wednesday, January 20, 2021

Date of Secondary School Re-entry: Wednesday, February 3, 2021

More information regarding Semester 2 (or Quadmester 3 and 4) will be made available at a

later date.

Parents/guardians of secondary students who initially opted for In-School Learning, but then

decide they want to opt into At-Home/Remote Learning, must declare their intention in writing

to the school principal. The date available for entry into an At-Home/Remote Learning class

is Monday, November 16, 2020.  Notification must be received no later than two weeks prior to

the entry date (Monday, November 2, 2020).

The Ministry of Education, based on recommendation from public health, may require that we

switch from the Secondary Adaptive Model/Modified Day model to the At-Home/Remote

Learning model at any time during the school year.

The Ministry may also direct that we move from the Adaptive Model/Modified Day model to the

Conventional model (every student attends school every day) at any time during the school

year. Please note that our Conventional model in Secondary would remain with two courses

until February 1, 2021.

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2. MODELS FOR LEARNING CONTINUED

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY

Students who choose to move between models of learning (At-Home/Remote Learning to In-

School Learning or In-School Learning to At-Home/Remote Learning) may experience a

change of teachers. In order to support student learning, educators will communicate with

one another to share information regarding student progress.

Spray the disinfectant solution on a soft, non-abrasive, lint free cloth. Avoid abrasive

cloths, towels, paper towels and similar items that may cause damage.

Do not use cloths that are saturated with liquid.

Never spray or pour disinfectant directly onto IT device/equipment.

Begin by wiping the screen/monitor, followed by the keyboard and mouse if applicable.

Close units and wipe the exterior (top and bottom) and respective cords.

Return devices to appropriate areas as outlined by the classroom teacher.

Students are encouraged to bring their own personal technological device to school for

classroom use as directed by the teacher. Personal devices should not be shared and should

be cleaned and disinfected routinely, minimally twice per day and when visibly dirty.

All students using a WECDSB technological device should sanitize their hands prior to

obtaining the device. At the conclusion of the session, the device must be properly cleaned,

disinfected and returned to the proper storage area as identified by the classroom teacher.

Upon return of the device, students should sanitize their hands.

Computer Labs:

Computers in labs may be utilized with appropriate physical distancing between students. All

computers must be appropriately cleaned and disinfected after individual student use.

General Recommendations for Cleaning and Disinfection of IT Devices:

Elementary Students who Received WECDSB Technological Devices During the School Closure

Period:

All elementary students who were loaned technological devices are to return them to their

respective school principal by Friday, September 18, 2020. This will allow for the proper

reconciliation of records, cleaning and disinfection in order for the equipment to be

reintegrated into appropriate classroom settings.

Students engaged in At-Home/Remote Learning

Any student who requires a technological device for At-Home/Remote Learning must notify

their school principal by email or phone by Wednesday, August 26, 2020. Every effort will be

made to meet requests at individual schools in a timely manner.

3. TECHNOLOGICAL DEVICES

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Educators will focus on the support of students with special education needs as schools

reopen. Transition plans, with parent consultation, will be established to facilitate a smooth

transition back to school for students with complex needs.

Student Individual Education Plans (IEPs) will be developed, updated and implemented as per

usual protocol. All students with special education needs will continue to be supported by the

classroom teacher and other special education staff as per their IEPs. Changes in the school

environments and/or remote learning needs will be considered when creating and updating

the IEPs.

Teachers, educational assistants and other special education staff essential for daily

academic programming in the classroom will use personal protective equipment when

physical distancing is not possible. Other special education services, via board or community

provider, such as Speech Language, Psychology, etc., will be scheduled and provided outside

of the regular classroom area respecting all necessary safety requirements.

We are recommending that if your child is medically fragile, immune-compromised or has

chronic or persistent health conditions that you speak with your healthcare provider(s) to

determine what mode of school delivery is most appropriate for your child and what, if any,

accommodations for your child’s health needs might be required. School teams will consult

with the Local Health Integration Network (LHIN) and parents to create and implement plans

to support the health and safety needs of the student and the staff who work with them.

Elementary:

At the elementary level, we will follow a conventional school day with enhanced safety

measures. All students with special needs will attend a full day of school, five days a week.

Secondary:

At the secondary level, students with special education needs who are participating in regular

credit courses and/or working toward fulfilling Ministry curriculum expectations will be

assigned to Cohort A or B and attend as per the adaptive mode described on page 6.

Also, students with a high level of special education needs, participating in alternative non-

credit courses and/or who have a developmental diagnosis requiring intensive intervention

and teaching support, will have the additional option to be assigned to Cohort C (Lifeskills

Programs) and attend every day, all day, when secondary schools are open. With

parent/guardian consultation, students who select Cohort C will attend a full-time Lifeskills

program.

4. SPECIAL EDUCATION

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SAMPLE Secondary Schedule for Cohort C (Lifeskills Programs):

Start and end times will vary depending on each Secondary School’s schedule.

Please consult the “IMPORTANT DATES” Section above for opting into other modes of learning.

4. SPECIAL EDUCATION CONTINUED

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All school staff have a role to play in supporting student mental health and well-being.

Creating welcoming environments, easing anxiety and establishing routines are important for

a successful and ongoing return to school.

Students will have access to Board mental health services beginning August 24th in

preparation for the return to school in the fall. Our mental health professionals and school

administrators have been provided with additional training, specifically for supporting

students who are dealing with mental health issues related to COVID-19 and will provide

ongoing support throughout the school year. School staff will be provided with additional

training and resources to build their capacity to ease the transition back to school and better

identify students who are struggling in order to refer them to the appropriate services.

Parents/guardians who feel that their children require mental health support or who are

having difficulties with coping due to anxiety or stress, should call their school office

beginning August 24th or call one of the services available at:

https://www.wecdsb.on.ca/students/student_well_being/mental_health

5. MENTAL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING

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Guidelines describing how these programs will be safely administered for students and staff

will be communicated directly to those families whose children are currently enrolled in the

academies. These guidelines will include a Student Safe Return Checklist, a sample schedule,

as well as details on dropping off and picking up students, physical distancing, equipment,

dressing rooms, fitness rooms, sport specific safety guidelines from governing sports

associations and expectations from our community/facility partners.

6. SPORTS ACADEMY PROGRAMS

8. HEALTH AND SAFETY

Protecting the health and safety of our students and staff is of the utmost importance. Our

risk reduction strategy incorporates a multitude of protective measures intended to

decrease the number of interactions with others and reduce the risk of COVID-19

transmission.

Screening

Each day before school, parents/guardians are required to assess their children for signs of

illness, using the daily screening questionnaire which will be provided to them in a separate

communication. The Daily Screening Questionnaire will be posted to the Board’s website and

social media platforms. Instructions on how to access it will be sent home via voice message.

You can find the daily Ontario COVID-19 School Screening Tool here.

If a student is experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19, they must stay home from school and

should seek appropriate medical attention.

Similar screening measures are in effect for staff members as well as essential visitors to the

school.

Signs will be posted on entrances to schools reminding students, staff, parents/guardians,

and essential visitors of screening requirements.

Guidelines describing how these programs will be safely administered for students and staff,

including student expectations and schedules, will be communicated directly to those

students via the school principal. The only significant change for these students will be their

schedule. All other guidelines contained in this document will be generally followed.

7. ADULT EDUCATION (ST. MICHAEL’S CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL)

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8. HEALTH AND SAFETY CONTINUED

Visitors

Only essential visitors will be allowed to enter the school or any of our community facilities

(eg. Sports Academies of WECDSB) and must do so by making pre-arranged appointments.

Visits to ensure school safety, such as inspections by fire prevention or public health, will

continue to take place. Essential visitors to the school will be required to self-screen, perform

hand hygiene upon entering the building and wear a medical mask while on school premises.

Schools will keep records of any approved visitors to the school, including occasional

teachers or custodians, to be provided if/when required by public health for contact tracing

purposes.

Parents/guardians will not be allowed to enter schools at this time, except in case of an

emergency. Communication between parents/guardians and teaching staff and/or

administration will be through phone calls, email or video conferencing.

Cohorting

Cohorting refers to the practice of keeping students together in small groups throughout their

school day, with limited exposure to multiple teachers or a wide variety of classmates. This

practice limits the number of other students that a single student is in contact with throughout

the day and will also assist with contact tracing should that be necessary.

Cohorting in elementary schools is accomplished through single class assignments. For

example, a single class in Grade 1 would represent a cohort and they will avoid close mixing

with individuals from other classes/grades. Cohorting is beneficial in elementary school

children where physical distancing is less practical.

Students may belong to more than one cohort. These cohorts include class cohort, bus

cohort and child care cohort.

Secondary school class sizes will have approximately 15 students. There will be two cohorts: A

and B. Rationale for cohorting is to facilitate contact tracing amongst the students in only two

periods. In a two period daily schedule, there are less transitions and less direct and indirect

contacts for both staff and students.

Cohort C identifies secondary students with special education learning needs.

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8. HEALTH AND SAFETY CONTINUED

Physical Distancing

As much distancing as possible between students, between students and staff and between

staff members will be promoted.

In elementary schools, the Ministry of Education has determined that all students can return

to school with enhanced safety protocols in place.

In elementary schools, students will be with their class cohort in one classroom all day. We

are currently assessing class sizes in order to support physical distancing within classrooms.

Classrooms may be established in gymnasiums and learning common spaces to allow for

increased spacing and/or smaller cohorts.

School staff will remove any unnecessary furniture from classrooms and arrange desks in

such a way to encourage as much distance between students as possible.

Principals will review the specific design of their buildings and ensure that controls are in

place to maintain distancing in hallways, washrooms and any common areas. This will

include: scheduling of staggered recesses and transitions; posting signs and indicating traffic

flow directions on walls; scheduling washroom breaks; and/or reducing the number of

washrooms that will remain open.

Physical distancing measures will be supplemented with other public health measures

supported by health and safety strategies, such as screening, adapted school environment,

cohorting, hand hygiene, enhanced cleaning and masking.

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Hand Hygiene and Respiratory Etiquette

Students will be taught how to clean their hands properly, through developmentally and age-

appropriate material; however, families are encouraged to review these practices prior to the

start of school.

Educational material can be found on the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit’s website: Hand

Hygiene Information

Students and staff will be encouraged to practice hand hygiene regularly, practice proper

respiratory etiquette and to avoid touching their eyes, nose and mouth.

Regularly scheduled hand hygiene breaks will be incorporated into the school’s routine.

Where sinks are readily available in classrooms, they will be utilized as hand washing stations.

There will also be age-appropriate signage placed throughout the school to remind students

to perform proper hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette.

Wall mounted and/or freestanding hand sanitizer dispensers will be placed at entrances, exits

and hallways. Parents/guardians are encouraged to send their children to school with

personal hand sanitizer if possible.

8. HEALTH AND SAFETY CONTINUED

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8. HEALTH AND SAFETY CONTINUED

Cloth masks and medical masks are both acceptable.

Parents/guardians should ensure that their child’s mask fits properly and is comfortable and remind

them that they are required to wear their masks properly throughout the day, unless otherwise

instructed.

Parents/guardians are encouraged to label their child’s mask and consider sending an extra one to

have on hand at school. It is suggested that students bring a small bag or pouch to put the mask in

when not being worn.

Parents/guardians are responsible for ensuring that masks are appropriately cleaned.

Masks will not be required during outdoor learning time or during recess.

Personal Protective Equipment

All staff members will be provided with the appropriate personal protective equipment to safely interact

with each other and students.

Teachers and classroom support staff will be provided with medical masks, face shields and a standard

operating practice document prescribing their proper use.

The Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board recommends that all students in Kindergarten-Grade 3

wear non-medical or cloth masks in indoor spaces. Students in Grade 4-12 are required to wear non-

medical or cloth masks indoors on school property.

Masks are mandatory for Grade 3 students in combined 3/4 classes.

Mask requirements will be included in the schools Code of Conduct.

Parents/guardians are responsible for providing a non medical or cloth mask for their child. A supply of

non-medical masks will be available at schools for those students who may require one.

Students who are medically fragile or have pre-existing medical conditions that prevent them from

wearing a mask will need to provide a doctor’s note in order to be exempt. That note must be provided

to the school by September 1, 2020. Individuals who may require an accommodation in accordance

with the Ontario Human Rights Code should discuss that with their school principal. Schools will share

information about those students who are exempt from having to wear a mask with Windsor-Essex

Student Transportation Services so that bus operators will know which students are exempt.

Education will be provided for staff and students regarding the proper handling and use of masks.

A few guidelines regarding masks:

More educational material can be found on the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit’s website.

How to Safely Wear a Mask

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Cleaning

Additional temporary cleaning staff will be hired for the duration of the pandemic and will be

responsible solely for enhanced cleaning protocols which follow the guidelines of the

Windsor-Essex County Health Unit. They will focus primarily on cleaning and disinfecting touch

points throughout the day, with special emphasis on most often and commonly touched

surfaces including fountains, door knobs, sinks and other horizontal surfaces.

Items that cannot be easily cleaned and disinfected, such as area rugs and soft furnishings,

will be removed from all areas of the school. The use of shared materials will be limited and

cleaned and disinfected between each use.

Students and staff will also be encouraged to promote consistent and good cleaning

practices.

8. HEALTH AND SAFETY CONTINUED

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DEFINITION:

Outbreak:

An outbreak in a school is defined as two or more lab-confirmed COVID-19 cases in students

and/or staff in a school with an epidemiological link, within a 14-day period, where at least

one case could have reasonably acquired their infection in the school (including

transportation and before or after school care).

MANAGEMENT OF COVID-19 IN SCHOOLS:

The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) is responsible for determining if an outbreak

exists, declaring an outbreak, and providing direction on outbreak control measures to be

implemented. However, even though an outbreak may be declared in the school, the WECHU

will assist in determining which cohort(s) may be sent home or if a partial or full school

closure is required based on the scope of the outbreak.

The WECHU will work with the school to determine epidemiological links (e.g., cases in the

same class, cases that are part of the same before/after school care cohort, cases that have

assigned bus seats in close proximity to each other). The WECHU will determine which cohorts

are high risk contacts requiring isolation.

An outbreak will be declared over by the WECHU. This may be based on at least 14 days from

the last outbreak associated case (including in a student, staff, essential visitor, or anyone

else in the school during the outbreak) and no further symptomatic individuals with tests

pending.

The outbreak does not necessarily need to be over to re-open the school. Cohorts without

evidence of transmission can be gradually brought back to school as additional information

and test results become available.

The Ministry of Education has developed a document entitled Operational Guidance: COVID-

19 Management in Schools. which supports school boards and school authorities in

preparation for the safe reopening of schools for the 2020-2021 school year.

The Ministry of Health has developed a document entitled COVID-19 Guidance: School

Outbreak Management which provides guidance to local public health units (PHU) on how to

investigate cases, outbreaks and suspected outbreaks in elementary or secondary school

settings.

9. OUTBREAK PROTOCOLS

22

9. OUTBREAK PROTOCOLS CONTINUED

23

MANAGEMENT OF ILL INDIVIDUALS DURING SCHOOL HOURS:

Any individual, including students, staff, contractors, visitors, parents, guardians, who

becomes ill while at school, including before and after school care affiliated with the school

will be immediately separated from others, in a designated room where possible.

Ill staff or adults will be directed to return home and seek medical advice, including the

recommendation of testing for COVID-19 as appropriate or as advised by their medical

provider. If they cannot leave immediately, the staff member or adult will be isolated in a

specific area until they are able to leave. They should not take public transportation.

Isolated ill students will be supervised per school policy with physical distancing maintained,

and personal protective equipment provided consistent with health guidance. Schools will

notify parents/guardians immediately and they will be advised to pick up their child from

school as soon as possible. The ill student should not take student or public transportation.

Parents/guardians will be directed to seek medical advice, including the recommendation of

testing for COVID-19 as appropriate or as advised by their medical provider.

Schools will report any probable or confirmed cases of COVID-19 within the school to the

WECHU as well as the Ministry of Education. To support successful case and contact

management, schools will ensure records of classes, transported students, and visitors to the

school are maintained and readily available to be provided to public health for contact

tracing purposes. Information will be shared in accordance with all applicable legislations,

including the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

MANAGEMENT OF A SINGLE ILL INDIVIDUAL KNOWN TO THE PUBLIC

HEALTH UNIT, WHEN TEST RESULTS ARE PENDING:

If the WECHU is aware of an ill individual (e.g. student/staff at a school) with test results

pending, the ill individual will be directed to self-isolate while testing is pending and will be

advised to seek further assessment or medical care as needed.

9. OUTBREAK PROTOCOLS CONTINUED

24

When the risk (as determined by the WECHU) of the person being a positive COVID-19 case is

not low (such as an individual who has a known exposure with a case during their infectious

period), the WECHU will ensure the school in the collecting/preparing information on the

cohorts and contacts of the ill individual, for sharing with the WECHU, if required, to facilitate

timely follow up.

Self-isolation and testing of asymptomatic contacts in the school of an ill individual pending

test results is not generally recommended.  For household contacts (roommates and family

that live with the ill individual) the WECHU should determine the need for self isolation based on

a risk assessment.

MANAGEMENT OF ILL INDIVIDUALS WITH A NEGATIVE TEST:

If the ill individual was instructed by the WECHU to self-isolate after a high risk exposure (e.g.,

close contact of a known COVID-19 case or travel out of country), the individual may return to

school only at the end of their 14-day isolation period, as they may be incubating up until then.

A negative test result does not reduce or change the requirement for the 14-day self-isolation

period for those self-isolating based on a high risk exposure.

If the individual has had no known high-risk exposure and was not advised by the WECHU or

health care provider to self-isolate, the individual may return to school when symptoms are

improving for at least 24 hours.

Medical notes or proof of negative tests will not be required for staff or students to return to

school.

MANAGEMENT OF ILL INDIVIDUAL WITH NO LABORATORY TEST RESULT:

If the ill individual was instructed by the WECHU to self-isolate after a high risk exposure (e.g.,

close contact of a known COVID-19 case or travel out of country), the individual meets the

case definition for a Probable Case. The individual will be managed as per public health case

and management guidance. The individual may return to school based on clearance from

isolation, as determined by the WECHU.

If the ill individual does not meet the Probable case definition, and there is a known

alternative diagnosis provided by a health care provider, the individual may return to school

when symptoms are improving for at least 24 hours.

9. OUTBREAK PROTOCOLS CONTINUED

25

If the ill individual has no known alternative diagnosis, and the individual has symptoms

compatible with being recommended for testing for COVID-19 the individual should self-

isolate from symptom onset based on guidance on clearance from isolation, as determined

by the WECHU.

If the ill individual has no known alternative diagnosis, and the ill individual was NOT

recommended for testing for COVID-19 by a health care provider, the individual may return to

school when symptoms are improving for at least 24 hours.

Self-isolation and testing of asymptomatic contacts in schools of an ill individual without a

confirmed positive COVID-19 result is not generally recommended.  For household contacts

(roommates and family that live with the ill individual) the WECHU should determine the need

for self isolation based on a risk assessment.

MANAGEMENT OF ILL INDIVIDUALS WITH A CONFIRMED DIAGNOSIS OF

COVID-19:

An ill individual who has tested positive for COVID-19 will be contacted by the WECHU and

provided further direction. An individual who tests positive will be directed to self-isolate for 14

days from the date of symptom onset (date may change based on presence of symptoms).

Retesting is not recommended and a negative test result will not alter this 14 day isolation

requirement. The individual may return to school when they are cleared by the WECHU or

health care provider.

The WECHU will notify the school of a positive COVID-19 diagnosis. Where the local health unit

determines there was a transmission risk to others in the school, students and staff will be

assessed to determine if they were at high risk of exposure (requiring isolation) or if they were

at low risk of exposure (can self-monitor for symptoms and return to school).

The positive case’s cohort(s) (both students and staff affiliated with the cohorts - classroom,

bus, extracurricular activities, before and after school programs) will generally be considered

as high risk of exposures and will be dismissed for required self-isolation.  All students and

staff determined by the WECHU to be at high risk of exposure will be directed to self-isolate

and recommended to be tested within their isolation period.

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COMMUNICATING WITH THE SCHOOL COMMUNITY:

Schools are responsible for reporting a probable or confirmed COVID-19 case associated

with the school to the WECHU and to the Ministry of Education through the daily reporting tool

where they have become aware of such a case.

Non-personal health information regarding a confirmed case of COVID-19 involving a student

or staff member in a school setting will be posted on COVID-19 advisory section of the school

and school board’s websites.

In the interests of privacy, information provided to school communities will not identify the

student or staff member that has received a positive COVID-19 test.

If the WECHU advises that a class, cohort or a school should be closed for a period of time,

parents, students and staff will be notified immediately.

Notices of any closures of classes, cohorts or schools will be posted on the school and school

board websites in the COVID-19 advisory sections.

9. OUTBREAK PROTOCOLS CONTINUED

9. OUTBREAK PROTOCOLS CONTINUED

27

Outbreak signage at entrances and affected areas.

Informing outside agencies that use the school/daycare of the outbreak.

Only allowing essential visitors into the school.

Further minimizing the movement of staff between cohorts.

Limiting student activities to their required cohorts and discontinuing extra-curricular

activities, as much as possible.

Restricting all staff (including school, transportation, staff from home care agencies or

others that provide medical services to those in school) form working in other schools.

For social setting outside of the school recommend to staff, students and their families

adherence to the social bubble (size based on current provincial recommendations).

Reinforce masking of students for source control based on requirements for their age,

mask and eye protection for staff members, hand hygiene for all, and maintaining

physical distancing.

Review the daily symptom screening process for all staff/essential visitors and students

and enhance if needed.

Review of environmental cleaning and disinfection, and enhanced cleaning and

disinfection for the outbreak area(s).

Ensure families, including any new child enrolments are aware of the outbreak.

Enforce any orders issued by the local Medical Officer of Health or their designate under

the Health Protection and Promotion Act, if necessary.

Return to school of cohorts deemed by the WECHU to not be affected or not at high risk of

exposure, and who do not need to self-isolate may occur prior to the end of the outbreak

if supported by the epidemiological investigation of the outbreak and implementation of

follow up measures in the school as recommended by the WECHU.

APPLICATION OF OUTBREAK MEASURES:Outbreak measures may be scaled up/down based on the transmission risk and outbreak

epidemiology in the school and the assessment of outbreak control measures.

Outbreak measures when schools remain open may include:

Initially there will be no extracurricular activities or field trips. We will monitor the situation

and make decisions about these activities on a case-by-case basis.

At this time, all Windsor and Essex County Secondary Schools Athletic Association(W.E.C.S.S.A.A.)

activities for the fall season are postponed until further notice. The situation will be monitored

on a regular basis and decisions about resuming activities will be made on a case-by-case

basis.

The Ontario Federation of School Athletic Associations(OFSAA) has also announced that all

championships and festivals for the fall season have been cancelled. The status of 2021 winter

and spring championships will be determined at a later date.

10. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES AND FIELD TRIPS

Any large gatherings such as assemblies will be cancelled for the foreseeable future.

11. LARGE GATHERINGS

12. TRANSPORTATION

Windsor-Essex Student Transportation Services, which provides busing to all four local school

boards, has finalized its protocols for returning to school. You can read them here:

http://buskids.ca/RTSProtocols.pdf

It is recommended that all students and parents maintain appropriate physical distance

while waiting at the bus stop. Parents and students from Grade 4-12 are required to wear a

non-medical or cloth mask when waiting in line at the bus stop and at all times while riding the

bus. It is strongly encouraged that students in Junior Kindergarten to Grade 3 wear masks

given the potential for close contact on the bus.

At this point we are waiting for more information from Transit Windsor regarding special bus

runs for secondary students. Updates will be provided as they become available.

Students are encouraged to use active and safe routes to schools (e.g. walking, cycling)

where possible or private transportation if available, to ease pressure on transportation

demand.

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Scheduling

Elementary school students in Kindergarten through Grade 8 will attend school five days per

week, with 300 minutes of instruction per day, remaining in their class cohort for the full day,

including recess and lunch. Specialized teachers, like PALS and French teachers, will go into

the classroom to provide the full breadth of programming for students. Students will be able

to leave their classroom to receive additional support (e.g. ESL or Special Education).

Elementary students will begin school incrementally beginning on Tuesday, September 8,

2020. Please refer to the schedule located in ‘Models for Learning' on page 4.

Notification of Classroom Teacher and First Day Procedures

Beginning the week of September 1st, all families will be notified of their child’s teacher as well

as information regarding first day procedures. This information will include the designated

entrance door in which to use in the morning. Families will receive this information through

the student’s mytools2go email account.

For Junior Kindergarten (JK) and all new students to the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School

Board, school staff will contact each family to convey this information. Information will also

be posted on each school’s website.

Each day before the start of school, parents/guardians are required to assess their children

for signs of illness, using the daily screening questionnaire which will be provided to them in a

separate communication. The Daily Screening Questionnaire will be posted to the Board’s

website and social media platforms. Instructions on how to access it will be sent home via

voice message.

You can find the daily Ontario COVID-19 School Screening Tool here.

In an effort to reduce congestion and maintain physical distance, we ask that

parents/guardians wishing to escort their children to school do so without stopping to talk

with others and to leave once their children have entered the school. Parents/guardians are

not allowed to enter schools at this time, except in case of emergency.

13. JUST FOR ELEMENTARY PARENTS

29

School Arrival and Dismissal Procedures

Students will be arriving either by bus, drop off by parents/guardians, bicycle or walking. Students will be

assigned designated entrances/exits. As soon as students arrive at school in the morning, they will

proceed directly into the school through their designated entrance door and enter their classroom.

Students will perform hand hygiene upon entering the building. The use of multiple entrance and exit

doors will assist with physical distancing. Lockers in hallways will not be accessible to students. Belongings

will be stored in classrooms.

Individual schools will develop procedures for Kiss and Ride, drop off and pick up of students. Please

follow the procedures set out by your child’s school.

Parents should be mindful of the role they play in mitigating the spread of COVID-19 through physical

distancing at school. Guidance will be provided on drop-off and pick-up procedures to discourage

congregating at school entrances.

Classroom Environment

Classroom settings will be adapted to support physical distancing and to allow for as much space as

possible between students and staff. Desks will face forward when possible.

Classroom routines will be established to support physical distancing.

School administrators and staff will encourage physical distancing to the greatest extent possible;

however, we acknowledge that younger students will naturally gravitate towards one another. Interaction,

such as playing and socializing, is central to child development and will not be discouraged. Cohorting

limits the mixing of students and allows for social interaction to occur more safely. Students will remain

with their class cohort at all times.

Classroom materials will be limited to those that can be easily cleaned and disinfected. As a result, items

such as area rugs, soft furnishings, plush toys and natural materials will be removed and stored.

The use of shared materials will be limited and they will be cleaned and disinfected between each use.

Students will be encouraged to use personal school supplies whenever possible. Suggested school supply

lists will be provided by individual schools.

Outdoor learning and play will be strongly encouraged. Students can expect to spend time outdoors

learning as a class, weather permitting. Masks are not required to be worn during outdoor learning times.

Gymnasiums may be used for additional classroom space if necessary, as determined by school

administration.

We do not intend to use other community spaces as temporary classrooms due to the safety and

logistical concerns that this creates.

13. JUST FOR ELEMENTARY PARENTS CONTINUED

30

Recess

Students will have opportunities to enjoy recess. Students will be required to remain with their

class cohort at recess and will not be allowed to mix with students of other cohorts. While

playing outdoors at recess with classmates in their own cohort, physical distancing will be

encouraged.

Recess times may be staggered and procedures will be adjusted to support cohorting and to

meet the unique circumstances of individual schools.

Playground structures will be closed to students until further notice.

Recess equipment shared within a class cohort, such as a class ball or tricycles, will be

cleaned and disinfected after use.

All students will perform hand hygiene before and after outdoor recess time.

Masks are not required to be worn during outdoor recess time.

Lunch

Lunch time schedules and procedures will be adjusted to support cohorting, to minimize

congestion during hand hygiene times and to meet the unique circumstances of individual

schools.

It is important that students come to school with lunch each day. The practice of dropping off

lunches at the office will not be allowed at this time.

Elementary students will eat lunch in their classrooms. Sharing of food is strictly prohibited.

Students will not be allowed to drink from water fountains. Students should bring a reusable,

refillable water bottle to school for personal use. Water bottles should be labeled with the

child's name.

Students may go home for lunch. Please follow the procedures established by your child’s

school.

All students will perform hand hygiene before and after eating lunch.

Special lunch days, provided by third party vendors, will not take place at the onset of school

reopenings. We will revisit the opportunity for special lunch days in the near future.

13. JUST FOR ELEMENTARY PARENTS CONTINUED

31

Ontario Student Nutrition Programs

Established snack or breakfast programs will be modified to offer students pre-packaged

snacks. A ‘Grab and Go’ format will be established for ease of delivery and access.

Programs will be maintained by school staff for the foreseeable future. Parent volunteers will

be invited to resume their role at a later time.

Washroom Procedures

Scheduled washroom breaks will be implemented to support cohorting. Signage will be

posted to indicate the maximum number of students permitted to simultaneously use the

washroom.

Music Programs

Music programming will be provided to students. At this time, students will receive lessons on

theory and music appreciation. There will be no singing or performances. As the year

progresses, elements of music instruction (singing, wind instruments) may be permitted, and

will require special considerations for spacing, physical distancing as well as other safety

guidelines as outlined by Public Health and the Ministry of Education. When permitted and

where possible, teachers are encouraged to instruct students outside.

All safety protocols, including spacing and physical distancing, as outlined by Public Health

and the Ministry of Education, will continue to be adhered to in classes.

Physical Education

Physical education classes will consist of activities that support physical distancing while also

limiting the use of shared equipment. When shared equipment is used, it must be cleaned and

disinfected after use.

Physical education classes will take place outdoors, whenever possible. Masks are not

required to be worn during outdoor physical education classes.

Students will practice hand hygiene before and after physical education class.

13. JUST FOR ELEMENTARY PARENTS CONTINUED

32

Child Care

Many of our schools offer third party child care services to families. Families seeking child

care services are encouraged to contact the child care providers directly to discuss

availability of programming. The decision to operate and determine operating capacities for

licensed Before and After school programs and authorized recreation programs will be made

by organizations and individual child care program operators.

Many of our Before and After School Programs take place in licensed shared spaces, such as

classrooms. Procedures will be established to allow for transitioning between child

care/school and school/child care. Shared spaces will be sanitized in between cohort use,

before and after school. Materials will not be shared amongst cohorts.

Students in Before and After School programs and authorized recreation programs will be

part of two cohorts (class cohort and child care cohort). Schools and child care operators in

schools will collaborate to ensure that student lists and information are maintained and

readily available to be provided if/when required by public health for contact tracing

purposes.

13. JUST FOR ELEMENTARY PARENTS CONTINUED

33

Scheduling

See Sample Secondary Schedule in section entitled, 'Models for Learning' on page 6.

Notice of First Day Procedures

First day procedures will be communicated to students and parents/guardians by school

administration through email and/or school messenger during the week of September 1, 2020.

At that time, information will also be provided on each school’s website.

Notice of Schedule

Students will receive schedules through their mytools2go email account during the week of

September 1, 2020.

Lunch

Secondary students will be dismissed to go home for lunch.

Washroom Procedures

Signage will be posted to indicate the maximum number of students permitted to

simultaneously use the washroom.

School/Classroom Environment

Students will be provided with information regarding designated entrances. Enhanced safety

protocols which include signage regarding hand hygiene, physical distancing and

directional hallways will be visible as students enter the building. Enhanced cleaning

procedures will be practiced throughout the school day.

Upon entering school, secondary students through grades 9 - 12 will be required to wear a

mask at all times.

Each day before the start of school, parents/guardians are required to assess their children

for signs of illness, using the daily screening questionnaire which will be provided to them in a

separate communication. The Daily Screening Questionnaire will be posted to the Board’s

website and social media platforms. Instructions on how to access it will be sent home via

voice message.

14. JUST FOR SECONDARY PARENTS

34

Masks

Hand sanitizer

Refillable water bottle

Small backpack

Chromebook/personal device

Pencils, pens, personal sharpener, paper, binders

Personal supplies for specialty areas (i.e. art supplies)

You can find the daily Ontario COVID-19 School Screening Tool here.

Students will be expected to report directly to their Period 1 class. Lockers will NOT be

accessible to students. Students should bring only the materials required for their assigned

period in the morning. Backpacks will be permitted in the classroom. A list of suggested

materials includes:

Sharing of personal materials will not be permitted.

The classroom environment will look different. Students will be assigned seating that

encourages physical distancing.

Hallways and stairwells will be two directional with arrows indicating the flow of traffic.

Students are required to wear masks during transitions as well as in classrooms.

Students are expected to remain in their respective classrooms for the assigned periods.

Washroom access will be on an individual basis and monitored by each individual teacher.

Cafeterias, Auditoriums, Student Centres

Administration will schedule students in these areas as appropriate. For example, these areas

may be used for students who have a Study Period/Block. Students will not have access to

these areas unless assigned by administration.

14. JUST FOR SECONDARY PARENTS CONTUNUED

35

Music

At this time, the focus will be on theory. There will be no singing or performances. As the year

progresses, elements of music instruction (singing, wind instruments) may be permitted and

will require special considerations for spacing, physical distancing as well as other safety

guidelines as outlined by Public Health and the Ministry of Education. When permitted and

where possible, teachers are encouraged to instruct students outside.

Secondary students will not share musical instruments and wind (brass and woodwind)

instruments will not be used at the present time. Low risk musical instruments may be used

instead. There will be no secondary vocal classes to begin the school year. Further details are

being formulated at this time.

All safety protocols, including spacing and physical distancing, as outlined by Public Health

and the Ministry of Education, will continue to be adhered to in classes.

Physical Education

Physical education and dance classes will consist of activities that support physical

distancing while also limiting the use of shared equipment. When shared equipment is used, it

must be cleaned and disinfected after use.

Physical education and dance classes will take place outdoors, whenever possible. Masks

are not required to be worn during outdoor physical education and dance classes.

While in gymnasiums or dance studios masks must be worn. Activities should not involve

rigorous physical exertion that elevates breathing. Acceptable activities include stretching

to warm up and cool down as well as skill demonstration while maintaining physical

distancing. High exertion activities which require students to breathe heavier or more rapidly

should not take place while in the gymnasium or dance studio. Rigorous or strenuous

activities may only take place while outdoors.

Weight/Fitness rooms will not be used at this time.

Students will practice hand hygiene before and after physical education class.

14. JUST FOR SECONDARY PARENTS CONTUNUED

36

In conclusion, the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board developed this document to

provide parents with the details they need in order to make an informed decision about which

model of learning they would prefer for their children when school resumes on September 8.

We appreciate that some parents may still have more questions. We will continue to

communicate more details as they become available.

This document includes guidelines and precautions that the Board is taking to prevent the

further spread of COVID-19 while students and staff are in our schools. We would strongly

encourage students, parents/guardians to follow the same precautions while at home and in

the community.

After having considered all of the information above, please proceed here to fill out the

parent declaration form if you have not already done so. This declaration is a requirement for

both elementary and secondary students by Friday, August 21, 2020.

15. CONCLUSION

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