Smiths Falls, valley school boards given sense of closure after Ontario’s decision to end school year

School boards in Smiths Falls and the valley are feeling a sense of closure after the Ontario government announced students would not be returning to in-person learning for the remainder of the school year.

Both the Renfrew County District School Board (RCDSB) and the Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) feel by having a solid decision by the government, it will allow school boards to move forward and sufficiently prepare for the next school year.

“Now that we know what the next steps are for the remainder of June, people are able to plan and organize the learning and the planning for the next steps,” UCDSB director designate Valerie Allen told CityNews Ottawa.

She adds the long periods of uncertainty were difficult on staff, students and parents. 

RCDSD director of education, Pino Buffone, explains the move to keep children learning remotely will sufficiently allow parents to arrange child care.

He also feels children's mental health has been a long-standing issue in the schooling system, only made worse by the pandemic.

The director of education also attributes extended periods of remote learning to increased strains on mental health.

Buffone and Allen both feel in-class learning is the best place for children to support their education and mental wellbeing. However, Allen understands the Ontario government's decision to maintain remote learning at this time. 

Allen said, “We also know these are unprecedented times and our ultimate goal is to keep students safe and staff safe, and we understand this is the main reason for the government's decision.”