The government’s decision to extend remote learning for elementary students in southern Ontario’s schools is understandable given today’s sobering announcement regarding the increase in COVID-19 transmission rates across this province. Although we know that the optimum learning environment for students is in our Catholic schools where they can benefit from the professionalism and Christian witness of staff, remote learning provides the safest options for students and staff at this time.

OCSTA and the Catholic school boards we represent, remain committed to maintaining ongoing and timely communications with the Ministry of Education. We are appreciative of the government’s positive response to our feedback regarding the impact of this pandemic on education and the subsequent funding provided to school boards to address the increased technology and mental health resources required for students during this extraordinary time.

Constant communication and collaboration throughout our sector will help to ensure that we are doing all that is possible to support the delivery of quality education while supporting the health and safety of all students and staff in our Catholic schools,” added Mr. Daly.

The Ontario Catholic School Trustees’ Association is the provincial voice for publicly funded Catholic education. Founded in 1930, OCSTA represents the interests of Catholic school boards that collectively educates approximately 600,000 students in Ontario, from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12.

Patrick J. Daly, President
Ontario Catholic School Trustees’ Association

January 7, 2021