Superintendent’s Office
Octobert 16, 2020
Dear Parents/Guardians,
As you are likely aware, this past week, we dealt with our first confirmed cases of COVID-19 in HSD schools. Public Health identified individual cases in Kleefeld, Mitchell, Steinbach and Niverville.
Although not unexpected, the announced cases in our school communities are an important reminder for all – to remain vigilant in our approach to prevention, following the fundamentals of handwashing, physical distancing, getting tested, and self-isolating as soon as possible when symptoms appear. Please be assured that HSD is working closely with Public Health to ensure necessary measures continue to be in place to protect all students and staff.
Public disclosure of identifying information, whether it be a staff member or student (grade, cohort, or class), is at the sole discretion of Public Health and cannot be released by our schools or the Division. Our teachers and staff will not share information other than what is stated in the official public health letter from the Medical Officer of Health. If you become aware of the specifics of a confirmed case, we ask that you please respect the privacy of our students and staff in your conversations with others whether in person or on social media.
This week’s events are also a reminder that COVID-19 will be a part of our daily lives for many months to come; school communities are no exception. This may present new challenges in the delivery of education, but I’m confident our students, staff, and you as parents/guardians will overcome. Please continue to talk to your children about COVID-19, be aware of available mental health supports, and remind them of the importance of good hygiene at home and school. Parents/guardians and family members play an essential role as students continue in-class learning during the pandemic. In this regard, I want to encourage you in your efforts and once again say thank you for your support.
Lastly, be sure to stay informed. Access information through trusted and reliable sources, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. The provincial government has developed an excellent resource for parents, and I encourage you to visit our portal at https://hsd.ca/covid19 for status updates and information specific to Hanover School Division.
Respectfully,
Shelley Amos, Interim Superintendent/CEO
Hanover School Division