Mar. 16, 2020
PDF of Media Statement
Statement delivered by Marilyn Dennis, chair, Board of Trustees.
As you are aware, the government of Alberta accepted the recommendation of Dr. Hinshaw to cancel classes.
Yesterday afternoon, the CBE and our metro school board colleagues had the opportunity to share our concerns with the Minister of Education and Dr. Hinshaw, specifically around our ability to action and maintain the recommendations for reducing the transmission of COVID-19.
We want to thank the provincial government for listening to school boards and for making the difficult, but necessary decision of cancelling classes to help prevent the continued spread of COVID-19. This was a decisive action in support of the safety of our students, staff and families.
We know that the cancellation of classes is causing some concern in particular around how learning can continue. Teachers are continuing to work in their schools. The CBE is working diligently to put plans in place to support student learning.
This is a rapidly evolving situation and we don’t know exactly what it means for classes to be cancelled indefinitely. We will work to support our students regardless of how long it takes to welcome students back into our schools. We will continue to be in contact with the Minister’s office in the coming days and weeks and will share information with families as it becomes available.
The safety and well-being of students and staff is always our priority and we expect schools will remain closed to students until it is safe to reopen. We will continue to take direction from the government of Alberta.
Thank you to all of our students, families and staff for their patience and willingness to adapt during these very challenging times.
