TORONTO - Ontario Education Minister Stephen Lecce has announced that publicly-funded schools in the province will remain closed until at least the end of May over COVID-19 concerns. The government said the decision was made based on advice from the province's chief medical officer of health, Dr. David Williams.
"We will do whatever it takes to keep our students safe," said Lecce in a statement Sunday. "The government is taking a careful approach which provides our medical experts the time to review the modelling and make the best decision for the safety of students."
The statement also acknowledges the possibility that the closure could be extended further. Ontario first closed schools on March 23 in response to the pandemic, and announced later that month that they would stay closed until at least May 4.
In a press conference Sunday afternoon, Lecce said the province did not plan to extend the academic year.
“At this point we do not see a need to extend the school year," he said. "We do see a need to ensure learning continues over the coming weeks and months through virtual learning.”
He also added that remaining PA days for the year would be cancelled to free more time for student learning, and that the province would expand its summer learning program, which provides opportunities for credit recovery and learning enhancement.
Lecce said learning will continue through online delivery, maintaining the closures would not impact students' ability to finish the academic year. He reiterated that report cards and final marks would be completed for all students.
"Regardless of what transpires over the coming weeks, Ontario's students will be able to complete their school year with confidence," Lecce said.
