Dear ASD-S Families,

Last week the province announced they will be removing all remaining COVID-19 measures on March 14, 2022. There will be a few important changes for our schools after March Break:

1)    Masks will no longer be required for students, staff, or visitors at any time in our schools or buses.

2)    Effective immediately, proof of vaccination will no longer be required for students to participate in any extracurricular and sports activities. Students wishing to join clubs, committees, and other activities may do so regardless of immunization status. Also, spectators are now permitted to attend all extracurricular activities without proof of vaccination.

Please note: Sports teams currently in mid-season will continue to follow the vaccination protocol and no new players will be permitted to join at this time. As well, proof of vaccination requirement will remain in place at this time for GNB employees and volunteers in our schools.

3)    After March 4, 2022 families will no longer need to inform the school if their child tests positive for COVID-19 and we will no longer be updating the COVID-19 Dashboard. As with missed time for any reason, families will still be responsible for informing the school of their child’s absences.

​4)    Isolation rules are no longer in place, however, as always, if your child is feeling unwell and displaying cold or flu-like symptoms, you should keep them home until they are feeling better. See the graphic here for general guidance on when to keep a child home from school and some important reminders about attendance.

It is important to note that while students and staff will no longer be required to wear a mask in school, some will prefer to continue wearing a mask and it is important that this be respected. We understand that families will have different perspectives on COVID-19 safety measures. While some families are relieved to see the protocols ending, there are families, students, and staff who will experience some anxiety as restrictions and safety measures are lessened. Everyone has experienced this pandemic differently, and we ask that everyone be treated with respect and kindness.

While formal safety measures will be lifted, we ask that you encourage your children to continue frequent hand washing/sanitizing, proper cough/sneeze etiquette, and monitoring for symptoms. Hand sanitizer will continue to be available in the schools.

We are again permitted to hold extracurricular events such as dances and end of year activities. There is much planning and organizing that happens in the lead up to these events and schools will have to assess what is feasible and what resources they have available. Schools will be in touch with their families in the coming months with plans for the end of the school year activities.

We understand that each family’s readiness and comfort level may be a little different at this time. The last two years have not been easy. We hope that with the removal of restrictions, our students will feel optimistic as they head into the break and excited to finish the school year strong. We thank students, staff, and families for their hard work and wish everyone a great March Break.

Have a safe and restful week,

Zoë Watson,

Superintendent, ASD-S​