COVID-19 mask policy following Ontario’s decision to lift the provincial mandate after the March Break.In a release on Wednesday afternoon, Hamilton Wentworth District School Board (HWDSB) chair Dawn Danko says their governors will be meeting Thursday to review the province’s move and assess the future of a local mask measure for its younger students.“At HWDSB, the Board of Trustees previously approved a motion that includes mask-wearing for students in Kindergarten to Grade 3,” Danko said.“Trustees will review the motion, the direction from the province and share further details as soon as possible.” Ontario lifts mask mandate in most settings March 21, all directives to drop by April 27 Currently both of Hamilton’s public school systems require masking for all students up to Grade 12 inside their facilities, unless exempt for medical or human rights causes."We know that there are mixed reactions to this change.
At HWDSB, we have remained committed to taking a cautious gradual approach to removing safety protocols, along with clear communication with our community when there are changes."Full statement: https://t.co/qOZJ4LW8WZ— HWDSB (@HWDSB) March 9, 2022Dr.
Kieran Moore, Ontario’s chief medical officer of health, revealed the mask ramp-down on Wednesday saying the move is another step in how the province can “live and manage COVID-19.”Masking in all remaining settings, as well as any other provincial COVID directives and orders, will dissolve on April 27.Masks will not be mandatory but are encouraged and highly recommended for those who are immunocompromised, at high risk, or choose to still use them, according to Moore.“And anyone who wants to wear a mask … they’re more than welcome to.