Dear Parents,

As you are very much aware the COVID-19 situation has affected everyone both globally and locally. The impact of this situation and how it is being handled changes on a daily basis as countries take unprecedented steps in trying to fend off the spread of the virus.

At St. John Paul II Academy the teachers and support staff have worked hard in ensuring a safe environment on all levels for your sons and daughters. We have made students aware of the need for practicing good hygiene along with the other recommendations that have recently been made by the Ministry of Education and by Archbishop Miller regarding protocol during mass. While we have been monitoring the daily information from FISA and the Ministry of Education, it has been business as usual at the school.

The Ministry of Education has taken no action at this time to close BC schools. Any deliberations schools may engage in regarding a possible school closure would only occur after consultation with the local Health Officer and, in our case, the CISVA Superintendent’s office.

It should also be noted that:

• Non – essential travel outside of Canada is not recommended and anyone choosing to travel outside of Canada (including the United States) will be required to self-isolate for 14 days upon their return to Canada.
• Event organizers are directed to cancel any gathering of larger than 250 people. This includes school assemblies.

The latter will possibly have an impact on daily school life as well as some upcoming extra-curricular activities planned in the month of April. Due to our already small school population, any significant absenteeism is felt throughout the community. Nevertheless, we will keep you posted on any decisions affecting school closures and /or school activity affected by the recent health concerns.

It is important to continue to practice good hygiene even if you are staying around the house and/or doing local activities. It is equally as imperative to inform the school immediately of any health- related concerns affecting your son or daughter as this will have an impact on decisions made at the school level.

I hope and pray that you are able to find ways to enjoy your Spring Break. Enjoy your family, and I look forward with hope and optimism that I will see everyone in two weeks.

God bless,

Mr. Michel DesLauriers
Principal