Northern Lights Public Schools superintendent Rick Cusson issued a media statment this afternoon, re-assuring parents of the 6,000 students in the division's 26 schools that the number-one priority during the COVID pandemic is student safety.
As of the time of the release, provincial officials were still continuing efforts to keep children across the province in schools, despite some post-secondary schools like the University of Alberta, chosing to cancel in-campus classes and utilizing digital learning.
Dear Parents, Staff and Students of Northern Lights Public Schools,
I wanted to take the opportunity, before the new school week starts, to personally thank all of you for your patience and cooperation as we deal with the impact the global COVID-19 pandemic is having on our schools and communities.
The last week has been challenging for students, staff and parents throughout Northern Lights Public Schools and we know we will be facing more challenges in the weeks ahead. What I want you to know is that the health and safety of our students continues to be one of our top priorities. All of the decisions we will make in the coming hours and days will be focused on how to maintain safe and healthy school environments for our students so they can continue to learn and participate in the opportunities provided to them by our schools.
Communication will be key over the next few weeks as we continue to deal with the impacts of COVID-19. This is a complex and evolving situation so at times our communication may be lengthy, however, we feel it is necessary for our stakeholders to have as much information as possible so you can make informed decisions for the health and wellbeing of yourselves and your families.
We will be sending out additional information soon about what steps we will be taking over the next few days to address the global COVID-19 pandemic. If you have not been receiving our emails, please contact your child’s school to confirm your contact information. During times like these, it is critical that the information provided to your children’s school is up to date.
I know this is a very stressful and sometimes frustrating time for parents and I appreciate the support that has been shown to our schools and our staff during this time. Getting through the next few weeks will require all of us to work together, support each other, and, most importantly, support our children and students. It is important that we maintain a calm and caring environment and minimize the anxiety our students will undoubtedly be experiencing. Part of that is making sure we also take care of ourselves and the people around us.
Please watch for further updates to be provided and if you have questions, please contact your child’s school.
Respectfully,
Rick Cusson
