WATCH LIVE: Ontario announces back-to-school plan to 'catch up' from pandemic
The plan focuses primarily on getting students back in the classroom for a "full school experience,” however the Progressive Conservatives say they will also “enable the option of remote learning” for parents who feel it’s the best option for their child.
“Our plan starts with a return to in-person learning, on time, and with all the experiences students need and deserve like sports, clubs and field trips. Nothing is more important,” the document reads. Few new details were released as to how the government plans to ensure in-person learning continues throughout the year, particularly if another wave of COVID-19 hits the province. Instead, the government touted their previous investments in ventilation improvements and HEPA filter units, the provision of rapid COVID-19 tests for staff and students and funding for parents to offset the costs of online learning.
School boards have been offering enhanced tutoring support programs focused on literacy and math since April 2022, officials say.Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education for Ontario makes an announcement during the COVID-19 pandemic in Toronto on Wednesday, January 12, 2022. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Nathan Denette