Good afternoon,
Dr. Strang and Premier McNeil have announced that Nova Scotia public school students will have an extended holiday break, from Dec. 21 to Jan. 11. Schools will be closed to students during that period, out of an abundance of caution.
The last day of school before the holiday break will now be Friday, December 18 (previously December 22). School-based staff will return to school on Monday, January 4 for five days of professional development and students will return to class on Monday, January 11.
Health officials tell us COVID-19 cases tend to spike after major holidays and it’s a pattern we’ve seen in other jurisdictions. So, as we think about the impact of the holiday break, and the importance of keeping children and families safe, the decision was made to extend the break.
The school year has been very successful so far. We are fortunate here in Nova Scotia, to be able to give our children an in-school experience. We know school is the best place for children and so far it has worked. We continue to hear very positive stories about schooling from students, families, teachers, and staff. We want that to continue.
Teachers and school-based staff will receive five PD days (Jan.4 – Jan. 8). This will provide them with an opportunity to prepare for the rest of the school year, and to think about how they can support student well-being and success until the end of June.
I appreciate everything you have all done to make this school year successful. Thanks to families, students, principals, staff, and all the people behind the scenes who are working hard so our students can continue to learn through pandemic.
We look forward to welcoming students back on January 11, 2021.
Sincerely,
Dr. Chris Boulter
TCRCE Regional Executive Director
