Message to parents/guardians about updated K-12 provincial guidance
Dear parents and guardians,
As I begin my new role as Superintendent for Surrey Schools, I wanted to take an opportunity to thank you for your continued commitment to the health and well being of our school communities over the course of this pandemic.
I know the past two years have not been easy for our students, and it’s because of your collective efforts that we have reached an important milestone in this pandemic. As many of you may recall, just before the break on March 10th, the Provincial Health Officer (PHO) shared updated COVID-19 guidance for K-12 schools. A summary of key updates can be found here.
The new guidance includes continued daily health checks, staying home when sick and practicing hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette. The PHO also announced that masks will no longer be required for students, staff and visitors. The decision to wear a mask or face covering is a personal choice for everyone. This choice will be supported and treated with respect in all our schools. Disposable masks will continue to be available at our sites for those that wish to use them.
Please note that these changes will be in effect when classes resume this coming Monday, March 28.
We recognize that individuals may experience varying levels of comfort during this time of transition. As we have seen so many times over the past two years, the kindness and compassion of our school communities have made all the difference.
Thank you for your patience and continued support as we transition through these latest changes. We continue to work closely with public health to guide the safe operation of our schools, with the health and safety of our students and staff as our first priority.
I hope you enjoy these last few days of spring break, and we look forward to welcoming students and staff back to school on Monday.
Sincerely,
Mark Pearmain
Superintendent of Schools/CEO
