After careful deliberation, the Cree School Board has come to a decision regarding the current school year. Please be informed that a resolution was passed today by the CSB Executive Committee, as per Bylaw No.8 COVID-19 Delegation of Powers that all in-person instruction for all CSB schools and adult learning centres be suspended for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year.
Be advised that this decision was reached after consultation with the Cree Nation Government, the Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay, and was approved by the Regional Public Health Officer, Dr. Faisca Richer.
"Our communities are our top priorities," said CSB Chairperson Dr. Sarah Pash. "We know that by continuing physical distancing and other precautionary measures we can help protect our communities from the spread of the coronavirus."
Teachers and other school-based staff have been informed of the decision and advised of next steps regarding the completion of the school year. In a memo to all staff, Pash and Director General Abraham Jolly thanked teachers for their continued dedication to students.
"These are exceptional times and have required exceptional collaboration," they said. "We thank you for your continued understanding, and especially for your dedication to our Cree Nation. Together, we will come through this, with renewed resilience and a deeper appreciation for our ability to be flexible and adapt to the challenges we face."
Director General Abraham Jolly said that the school board will deliver instruction and assignments in alternative ways, such as the Online Learning Platform for youth-sector students.
"Student success remains our at the core of our vision," he said. "We will do everything we can to assist students in their learning."
The Cree School Board earlier this month canceled all final exams for this school year and provided youth sector students home-based and online projects that will count to their graduation requirements (Secondary V) or advancement (Secondary IV). They have also created an Online Learning Platform for elementary students. Adult Education students are also being facilitated through alternative solutions.
