May 13, 2020
Weekly Update from our Principal – May 12, 2020
Last week the Premier announced details of BC’s restart plan (link below). Included in that was a plan for a phased-in approach that will see a slow return to in-class instruction over the next number of months. You also received a letter from our superintendent as well outlining that we are currently in Stage 4 of the Education Stages for K-12 remote learning for most students, with in-class learning opportunities for children of essential service workers and some of our vulnerable students.
By no later than the beginning of June, we will move into Stage 3: remote learning continuing for most students, with an optional, part-time return to in-class instruction for students whose families need to have kids back in classes (currently defined by the Ministry as in-class learning options for students in K-5 on part-time basis, and access to in-class learning as needed for grades 6-12 on a part-time basis).
We are currently working on a plan for the safe return of students and staff. We are in the beginning stages and are not sure yet what type of schedule will be in place. When we have a more solid plan I will let you know and a survey will be sent out. It will include the specifics you need to know (hours, days, expectations, etc.) so you and your family can make a decision about whether you’d like to complete the remainder of the school year through a slightly modified version of the remote learning you’re currently engaged in, or if you would like your kids included in the voluntary, part-time return to some in-class instruction.
I also wanted to make you aware that the yearbook has been completed and has gone to press. Thank you to Ms. Harrison for taking on this massive undertaking. There were many students (too many to name) who helped throughout the year taking photos and working on the lay out, thank you as well. The book looks amazing and the finished product will be delivered at the end of June.
Take care and be safe,
Debbie Jones
djones@sd40.bc.ca
May 12 – Book request email opens
May 15 – Pro-D – teachers will be unavailable
May 18 – Victoria Day – Stat Holiday
May 19 – First day of book pick ups and returns
New Mental Health Resources for Teachers
Every year since 1951, Canadians have come together at the start of May in support of Mental Health Week. And this year, mental health awareness is more important than ever in light of the transition for many students to a remote learning environment.
A variety of new, free, virtual educational resources have been launched to support the social and emotional well-being of students, parents and educators during this time. Among them is the WE Schools @home program. Developed in partnership with the Ministry of Education, B.C. educators and mental health professionals, this program is aimed at youth who are experiencing anxiety and social isolation. Accessible in both English and French, the program provides educators for grades 4-6 and grades 9-12 with a wealth of valuable resources aligned with B.C.’s curriculum.
Also available to parents and caregivers is the new EASE (Every Anxiety Strategies for Educators) at Home program for grades K-3 and 4-7. EASE includes five weeks of daily activities that focus on tips and strategies to create calming routines for children and help them talk about difficult emotions and manage their anxiety.
As school districts continue to assess the needs of all students and expand the delivery of in-school supports, these tools can be a crucial resource to re-introduce some learners to the school environment.
A comprehensive list of resources and immediate helpline contacts can also be found on the Ministry of Education Mental Well-Being Information and Resources web page.
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Also available to parents and caregivers is the new EASE (Every Anxiety Strategies for Educators) at Home program for grades K-3 and 4-7. EASE includes five weeks of daily activities that focus on tips and strategies to create calming routines for children and help them talk about difficult emotions and manage their anxiety.