Student absences, particularly in elementary schools, are far higher than the previous two years and nearly triple pre-pandemic numbers.
The Lester B. Pearson School Board is strongly encouraging students to wear masks in schools to deal with rising rates of illness in the community.
In a bulletin to parents and guardians last week, the school board said illnesses like COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are “circulating in the community and impacting school-aged children.”
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“The LBPSB has been monitoring student absences during the month of November. The rates of student absence this month are alarmingly high, particularly at the elementary level. They are far higher than the previous two years and nearly triple pre-pandemic numbers.”
Although mask-wearing is not mandatory, the school board said free masks continue to be available in all schools and educational centres.
“Should you wish to encourage your child to wear a mask in class, we will ensure that masks are available to them. Given the high rates of illness and absence, we are strongly encouraging you to consider this measure,” the school board stated.
“Mask wearing remains entirely optional; we will continue to respect a student’s choice to wear a mask while at school should they choose to do so,” the board added. “It is clear to our schools and centres that they are to permit mask wearing while not making it mandatory.”
The LBPSB will also continue to promote proper hand hygiene and distribute COVID-19 rapid-tests which can be used at home.
jmeagher@postmedia.com
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