A Letter to Parents on Distance Learning

Dear Parents/Guardians:

As we enter week five of distance learning, we celebrate Education Week. It’s an opportune time to thank students and parents/guardians for your ongoing commitment to learning together while safely apart.

Our shared goal is to ensure the successful completion of the school year for all students, and to support students to advance to the next school year, earn credits and to graduate.

We recognize the important role we all play in keeping students motivated and engaged. Teachers continue to have high expectations for students and we want students to continue to have high expectations for themselves. Distance learning is all about preparing for the future, so let’s take a deep breath and stay the course. We know you can do it.

As always, please be assured that our educators and support staff will reach out to students and families who may require extra support and encouragement. If you have any questions or concerns, please connect with your child’s teacher(s). We are here to help.

As we look ahead, we know you may have questions about final marks. Students will be graded on work completed prior to school closures on March 13th and, more importantly, can improve their marks from April 6th to the end of the school year with teacher-led distance learning. No student will be adversely affected due to school closures.

At the secondary level, exams are being replaced with culminating activities. Marks can only go up from what they were, so effort and performance count.

Grade 12 graduates will receive their Ontario Secondary School Diploma. In all likelihood, however, graduation ceremonies and proms will be postponed. Schools are considering options and will communicate directly with students and families.

During Education Week, I invite students to take time to reflect on how much you have achieved. Be proud of your accomplishments. We are certainly very proud of you.

Keep well and keep learning.

Letter to Parents and Guardians in PDF