School boards are using multiple strategies to support safe and learning environments. A multi-pronged ventilation strategy is a key element as part of the various risk mitigation initiatives in place to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission. School boards are optimizing air quality in schools through improved ventilation and filtration thanks to recent investments from the Ministry of Education.
School ventilation systems in all Limestone schools are regularly inspected to ensure they are in good working order. School boards are also optimizing air quality in schools through existing or upgraded Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems or stand-alone High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filtration units. Implemented measures are dependent on the type of ventilation and feasibility within the context of school facilities and related building systems. Classrooms that do not have filtered air, for example, will have HEPA unit(s) installed to ensure the air is changed frequently.
Beginning September 3, 2021, school boards will share a standardized ventilation measures report HYPERLINK for the 2021-2022 school year to enhance transparency and provide consistent communication across the province. This reporting requirement includes School Board Ventilation Strategy; School Board Ventilation Investments; and a School-level Ventilation and Filtration Measures Report.
In 2021-2022, Limestone received $7.8 million in ventilation funding to support 26 ventilation projects in progress/planned, and 25 schools received an investment, which is 45% of total schools in the board.
The board has received 850 stand-along HEPA filtration units which are being deployed to schools. Limestone has received 820 classroom units and another 30 units (these are equivalent in size to four classroom units) for school gymnasiums are expected this week.
All Kindergarten classrooms will also be equipped with HEPA units regardless of the type of ventilation in the school as per Ministry of Education guidelines.
LDSB Ventilation Measures Reporting