The Manitoba government announced Wednesday that it will delay going back to school after winter break until January 10, 2022.
Education Minister Cliff Cullen made the announcement in a press release, saying the delay is to give public health officials more time to assess Omicron’s risks and determine whether changes may be needed when students come back to school next year.
Most of the students were initially scheduled to return to school on January 6.
As the Manitoba school vacation begins, the Manitoba government wishes to thank students, teachers, school staff, school leaders, school divisions, parents and caregivers for ensuring that schools have been safe and open for learning in the classroom. since September, ”Cullen said in the press release.
“But right now, things are changing rapidly and public health has recommended a slight delay for back to school. This will give them more time to better assess risk and look at options for the new year. “
The province noted that the delay means that members of the school’s staff will return to work on January 6 for professional learning and to prepare for the rest of the year.
He added that many child care centers will remain open for children under the age of 12 so that families can access the child care services they need.
Dr. Brent Roussin, provincial director of public health, said in the press release that the province will share more details about the back-to-school plan as it learns more about the Omicron variant.
“We have recommended this delay for back to school in addition to the restrictions under public health orders and I want to remind Manitobans of the importance of keeping meeting sizes small to allow for a safer return to school at the new year, “he said. .
Cullen said the back-to-school delay also gives the province more time to distribute rapid tests to schools.
The province urges those who are eligible for a booster shot to make an appointment or go to a walk-in clinic during the holidays.
Reference-winnipeg.ctvnews.ca