Dear Holy Spirit Catholic School Division Families,
The Alberta Government recently provided a COVID-19 Update which impacts Holy Spirit Catholic School Division’s Guidelines for Maintaining Safe & Healthy Schools and school re-entry plan. These adjustments are based on the provincial update and recent consultation with our local Medical Officer of Health.
Effective Wednesday, September 8, 2021, and adhering to the Alberta Health CMOH Order 40-2021, buildings in Holy Spirit Catholic Schools will require all staff and all students (K-12) to wear a non-medical mask. While we understand the importance of language development in the early years and the potential impact of masking, children in Early Learning Programs are still strongly encouraged to wear a mask. Because the nature and layout of our schools do not allow for adequate physical distancing, masks will be required at all times (except as noted below). As we have recently communicated with parents, families and staff, please remain home if you are sick and continue to do the Alberta Health COVID-19 Self-Assessment for everyone in your household.
- Masks will not be required during physical activity, eating (while seated), or when outdoors
- Individuals who are unable to wear a mask will require a doctor’s note that is in alignment with the Alberta Health CMOH Order 40-2021. The Government has placed a Medical Note for Mask Exemption on the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta website. The form can be found here.
In our region, we are seeing a significant surge in the number of COVID-19 cases, rates of hospitalization and Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admissions. Since we put our original plan in place in August, the active case counts have more than doubled in a few short weeks.
Our Guidelines and plan remain subject to change as updated information is received from the government. We will continue to work with AHS and Alberta Education to provide the best possible learning environment for all our children, students and staff.
I thank you in advance for your prayers as well for your ongoing support and understanding as we continue to combat this dreadful disease that knows no boundaries.
Kindest regards,
Ken Sampson, Superintendent of Schools