May 27, 2021
Good afternoon Fort McMurray Catholic Schools families,
We reach out to you today as we prepare for the return to school for all students on Monday May 31st, 2021. We are very excited to see our schools full of students again- our schools feel empty without them. We are also very aware that this is an anxious time for many families, and for some there is a feeling of trepidation about going back to school for June. We will walk through this together.
Fort McMurray Catholic Schools has always believed the best place for learning is in the classroom. We also believe it is the choice of the parent/guardian if they are not comfortable with sending their child to school for the month of June. But please be aware our teachers cannot be supporting students at home while they are actively teaching in the classroom.
Reminders about protocols
- Please remember to do the daily checklist each morning
- Please continue to wash your hands
- Please wear a mask (if you are able)
- Please physically distance (when possible)
- Please do not send your child to school if they are not feeling well
Rapid testing
As you may have seen in recent Government of Alberta announcements, rapid testing for schools may be coming to schools in Fort McMurray as soon as next week. We will share more information as soon as it becomes available.
New Isolation Rules
There has been an update to COVID-19 isolation guidelines. This is in regards to those who have received one or two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine. The full isolation protocols can be found here.
Immunizations
Children born in 2009 and earlier are now eligible to receive COVID-19 vaccinations. For families interested in booking a time to be immunized, please visit the Alberta Health Services website. AHS Medical Officer of Health- North Zone shared this letter with our grades 7-12 families earlier this week.
Mental Health Supports
We understand this continues to be a time of high anxiety for many. We are here to support our families to the best of our ability. Our counselling team has compiled mental health information from several sources.
Coming up on June 3, 2021 Alberta Education is hosting a Mental Wellness Day for Schools. There will be several sessions for students, staff, and families.
Please be assured we will continue to work closely with Alberta Health Services to ensure we follow their ongoing recommendations.
School divisions do not have the authority to make public health decisions like moving a full school division to virtual learning. When steps are taken it is at the direction of the Alberta Education, Alberta Health Services and local health authorities. Fort McMurray Catholic Schools is in regular communication with Alberta Education, Alberta Health Services, and school divisions across the province.
God Bless,
George McGuigan
Fort McMurray Catholic Schools Superintendent