DCDSB – Air Quality Update for June 8, 2023

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers: 

The safety of students and staff is a top priority for the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB).

We want to provide an update on activities in the DCDSB for Thursday, June 8, 2023.

A special air quality statement has been issued for Durham Region, with smoke from wildfires causing poor air quality and reduced visibility. Based on consultations with the Durham Region Health Department and a high risk due to the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI), we have recommended that students be kept indoors for recess and lunch today. All field trips, track and field meets, and other outdoor activities will be cancelled or relocated indoors.

The DCDSB will continue to work with the Durham Region Health Department to monitor the air quality and introduce additional safety measures where needed. For more information on outdoor air quality, please visit the Region of Durham website.  

We anticipate similar recommendations will be in place on Friday, June 9, 2023, for secondary schools. Please note that Friday, June 9 is a PA Day for elementary students only.

School ventilation will continue to be adjusted as required. Portable HEPA units are currently being used throughout our schools.  

For tips and more information on how to protect yourself from wildfire smoke, please visit the Government of Canada website.

If you have any questions, please contact your school.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board