Update to COVID-19 Public Health Protocols

Limestone Learning Foundation
Updated Information for Families
Posted on 03/10/2022

As we approach March Break, we would like to share some important information and updates related to COVID-19 Public Health protocols Yesterday, the Ontario Chief Medical Officer of Health announced a number of provincial directives impacting schools.   As COVID-19 restrictions are lifted by provincial directives, students, families, and staff will have different reactions.  While these changes signal a return to more normal school circumstances, we are in a period of transition, and will need to be very conscious of differing levels of comfort for different people.   Respecting people’s individual decisions will continue to be important.  Moving forward, we will continue to stay in close contact with our local public health units to report on and monitor any changes in the local health situation. 

 

Below are the critical updates from the province:
The provincial screening tool has been further amended to align with federal requirements, and to take into account different vaccination circumstances.  The screening tool will advise on any isolation requirements for your particular situation, but in general, household members of COVID-positive or symptomatic individuals do not have to isolate if:

  • (a) they have tested positive for COVID-19 in the previous 90 days;  

  • (b) are older than 18 and have received their booster dose (three doses); or  

  • (c) are younger than 18 and are fully immunized (two doses).  Household members who do not meet these criteria must self-isolate.  

  •   

SCREENING TOOLS

Masking and cohorting mandates for schools and on school transportation will be lifted following March Break, as of March 21, 2022.  While the masking mandate has been lifted, all students, families, and staff who choose to continue masking are encouraged to do so.  All individuals with underlying health issues are also encouraged to continue to wear a mask.  It should be noted that family members of symptomatic individuals in their household must wear a mask for 10 days and not participate in school-based activities where wearing a mask is not possible.  For example, music class or high impact athletics.  Masking is also required upon return from international travel. 

Other Protocols Impacted Monday March 21:
  • (a) restrictions will be lifted for athletic activities and music, 

  • (b) public health capacity limits for indoor activities will be removed. 


Rapid Antigen Tests will continue to be available for students and staff for symptomatic testing or returning from an unplanned absence. 

Screening daily for COVID-19 symptoms continues to be a requirement.  Staff and students are directed to stay home if they are experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms.  

 

Please note as well that guidelines related to international travel are regulated by the Federal Government, and not necessarily impacted by provincial changes. If you are vacationing over the March Break, be sure to know what restrictions and isolation requirements are in place for travel. 

 

Given the significant changes that have been announced, reactions will vary.  Given the experience with COVID-19 for the last two years, we recognize that for some people these public health measures represented protections, while for others they represented restrictions.  Continuing to exercise patience, kindness, and respect for others will continue to be important.  The Director will share some additional updates tomorrow.   

The Limestone District School Board is situated on traditional territories of the Anishinaabe & Haudenosaunee.