We would like to share some information and updates with you. We encourage you to check our website regularly and monitor your email, including your junk mail, for any updated information.
Update on Provincial Health and Safety Guidance
Updated: March 10, 2022
The Ministry of Education announced that due to declining rates of COVID-19 in the province, on the advice of the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Ontario, many of the pandemic-related safety measures which have been in place in schools are being lifted. Click here to read the news release.
Lifted Safety Measures
When students return to school after the March Break, the following safety measures are no longer required:
- Mandatory masking in schools and board offices; (please note exceptions outlined below re: returning from travel and isolation procedures)
- eye protection for staff;
- cohorting and distancing indoors and outdoors at school;
- assigned seats and cohorting on student transportation; and
- completion of the daily confirmation of COVID-19 self-assessment.
Although masks and eye protection will no longer be mandatory, students, visitors, families, and staff are welcome to continue wearing masks while at school.
Important Information for March Break Travel
If students are planning to leave for March Break, we want to provide a reminder that notwithstanding the lifting of mandatory masking, under current federal travel requirements, upon return from international travel, for 14 days after re-entry to Canada, individuals must wear a mask at all times when in public spaces (including schools and child care), maintain a list of all close contacts and self-monitor for signs and symptoms of COVID-19.
Continued Safety Measures
One of the best ways to prevent spread of the virus is to ensure that when someone is sick or showing symptoms, they stay home. It is expected that everyone continue to self-assess daily using the COVID-19 screening tool. Students and staff should remain home if they are ill or do not pass the screening tool.
Following the March Break (on Monday, March 21), the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) will continue to use the following safety measures in our schools and offices:
- appropriate hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette will be promoted and integrated throughout the school day;
- enhanced cleaning and disinfecting protocols;
- enhanced ventilation protocols and standalone HEPA filters will remain in place;
- ongoing monitoring of COVID-19 impacts and reporting of absenteeism rates to the Durham Regional Health Department
Isolation Guidelines
Isolation guidelines were also changed effective Wednesday, March 9, 2022. Please refer to the Government of Ontario’s website for the most updated isolation guidelines.
Vaccinations
Public Health continues to communicate that vaccination is still the best protection against COVID-19. If you are interested in obtaining a COVID-19 vaccination for your child or yourself, please book an appointment at Durham Region Health Department. The Health Department has provided the following update regarding immunization clinics for your consideration.
- Booster Dose for Youth 12 – 17 and those 18 years of age and older
Booster doses are now available for all individuals 12 years and older. A booster dose provides an extra layer of protection against COVID-19 and helps lower the risk of severe illness and hospitalization. Youth aged 12 – 17 are recommended to receive a booster dose at least 168 days after their second dose. Learn more about booster doses. - COVID-19 Vaccination after COVID-19 Infection
Individuals who have previously tested positive for COVID-19 are still encouraged to get the vaccine when they become eligible. Read more about how this applies to individuals during first and second dose as well as booster doses.
The Health Department continues to offer clinics with extended hours for families. These clinics welcome walk-ins and booked appointments. Information about clinic locations, dates and times is located on the clinic calendar.
COVID-19 vaccinations are also available at some pharmacies, select health care providers and at Provincial GO-VAXX mobile clinics. For more information about COVID-19 vaccines, visit their website www.durham.ca/covidvaccines
Thank you for your continued cooperation and understanding as we resume activities that have been on pause within our school communities. As a Community of Faith, we will continue to provide safe and welcoming school environments that focus on kindness, consideration and respect towards all.
Durham Region Health Department Resources
Durham Region Health Department and Ontario’s Ministry of Health have compiled guidelines and resources:
What to do if you've been exposed to COVID-19
COVID Case and Contact Information Hub
To access the DCDSB's COVID-19 Updates webpage, click here.
Format for Classes 2021-22 School Year
All Adult Day school credit courses will be offered as a combination of in-school and online learning. Students can work from home or school and will be supported by a teacher.
You can email cont.ed@dcdsb.ca or call Oshawa 905-438-0570 or Ajax 905-683-7713 if you are unsure when to attend or how to reach your teacher.
Students must ensure that the main office has your updated cell phone and email address so that Continuing Education can communicate with you. Email this information to cont.ed@dcdsb.ca and in your email identify your name, contact information and if you are attending the Oshawa or Ajax Campus.
Register for Classes
To view our current course offerings and register for Ajax and Oshawa credit classes, please visit our Adult Day School webpage by clicking here.
