School closed until further notice due to COVID-19

Below is the letter from Suzanne  Hoffman,  Superintendent of Schools, Vancouver School District regarding school closures due to COVID-19

Dear Parents and Guardians,

I wish to share updated information with you about impacts of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) on our school communities. Today, we received the attached letter from the Ministry of Education following the provincial government’s announcement to suspend in-class learning in BC’s schools.

Everyone at the District understands that the effects of this decision will vary family-to-family. We are committed to doing all that we can to maintain safety for your children. Like the Minister of Education indicated, the District will work to develop ways to ensure children’s learning continues. With schools out on spring break, we will take this time to initiate those plans. The District will provide more information as soon as details are determined. Please check our website for updates. Additionally, we are looking at how to continue to meet the needs of students who rely on enhanced supports at their schools such as nutrition/food programs.

In addition to today’s announcement, the District also suspended community groups’ rentals in our facilities. At this time, daycare and the District’s Community School Teams’ programs are not impacted.

We continue to work closely with the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health, the Office of the Provincial Health Officer and Vancouver Coastal Health on the COVID-19 response.

Public institutions, such as our education system, have a responsibility to ensure every step is taken to address this pandemic in our communities. As I said before, these are extraordinary times. Yet, I know our school communities are places of deep connections and good will. I hope, like me, you find comfort in that sense of community amidst our current situation.

Sincerely,

Suzanne Hoffman
Superintendent of Schools
Vancouver School District