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New West school district shares update on COVID-19

As spring break is on the verge of starting, the Ministry of Education is reminding parents that anyone travelling out of the country should go into voluntary isolation for 14 days upon returning. A letter from D.
Coronavirus
The New Westminster school district has sent out a letter from the Ministry of Education regarding COVID-19.

As spring break is on the verge of starting, the Ministry of Education is reminding parents that anyone travelling out of the country should go into voluntary isolation for 14 days upon returning.

A letter from D. Scott MacDonald, the deputy education minister, updating parents on the latest provincial directives on novel coronavirus COVID-19 was sent out by New Westminster superintendent Karim Hachlaf on Friday.

Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry is also requiring that all events with 250 people or more be cancelled or postponed, the letter stated.

“At every level, we're working hard to try and stay in front of and respond to this evolving issue – implementing appropriate changes and evaluating school activities as needed,” Hachlaf said in his message to parents. “Throughout spring break, and the foreseeable future, we will continue to communicate as the situation requires.”

Parents were advised to wash their hands and make sure their children are washing their hands frequently, and for all family members to stay home if they’re sick.

“The health and safety of students, staff and our school community is our priority,” MacDonald stated. “At this time, the provincial health officer advises school closures are not necessary.”

The Minister of Health, Adrian Dix, will be communicating with the Ministry of Education  over spring break regarding COVID-19, the letter stated.

“We are in a very challenging time, and some of these asks may be difficult for you and your family,” MacDonald added. “ By taking these preventative steps together, public health officials aim to contain the spread of COVID-19 and to protect vulnerable people in our communities. It can be reasonably expected that other measures may be introduced.”

The information in this story was current as of 2:45 p.m. on Friday, March 13. It will be updated as more info becomes available.

For more information from the school district on COVID-19, go to newwestschools.ca/coronavirus.