​Dear ASD-S Families,

Please find below a message from Assistant Deputy Minister (Education and Early Childhood Development) Craig Caldwell and Dr. Jennifer Russell, Chief Medical Officer of Health, regarding isolation guidance and suspension of the Point of Care (rapid) testing program in our schools.

We would like to thank you for your patience and cooperation this week. We understand that this is a difficult time for students and their families. We appreciate your support and we look forward to welcoming everyone back in-person.

Zoё Watson, Superintendent

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November 4, 2021

The current CUPE labor action is impacting contact management and the rapid Point of Care Testing (POCT) program available through local schools. Public Health New Brunswick and the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development have paused the program effective October 29th.

Students identified as a close contact of COVID-19 will not have access to the POCT kits through their local school and will be required to follow self-isolation as directed by regional public health until further notice.

For children already enrolled in the POCT program, they should continue with daily POCT monitoring. If any child tests positive, isolate immediately and contact the local Public Health office for further direction.

Individuals who are currently self-isolating after contact with a positive case must continue to self-isolate. If they have no symptoms, their isolation may be stopped at 11:59 p.m. on Day 14.

If symptoms develop, they are to continue to self-isolate and request a PCR test online. If you do not have access to a computer or need help, call 811. The Assessment Center will call you with an appointment. Please answer your phone.  

Given the circumstances, delays are to be expected. We recognize how challenging service changes are for everyone, and your continued patience is greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,

Craig Caldwell Assistant Deputy Minister Education and Early Childhood Development

Dr. Jennifer Russell, BA, BSc, MD, CCFP Chief Medical Officer of Health

Copy of Memo