Back to school supports for 2021-22
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 22/08/2021 (649 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
A new school year is on the horizon and we are all hoping to see as much normalcy as possible.
I have received and responded to letters and feedback from local parents and have heard their concerns regarding the plan for the 2021-22 school year and COVID-19. I also meet regularly with our local school division and school trustees.
I understand everyone has been under a lot of stress. While we have continued to adapt and move forward, and our kids have shown tremendous resilience, I want to make people aware of the plans and resources available to support students, parents and teachers during this school year.
The plan for the 2021-22 school year has been a collective effort and is built upon the successes of the last school year with four priority areas that will help guide students and school officials with a safe return to the classroom. The four priorities are promoting mental health and well-being, vaccinating Manitobans through promotion and outreach, assessing and addressing learning impacts, as well as following public health’s recommendations of health and safety.
In addition, the government has allocated $58 million to support these priority areas and have a successful school year. A fund of $5 million has been included and provided upfront to school divisions over the summer to support programs in the summer as well as assessment and learning activities for the start of the school year.
Other initiatives include training in culturally relevant mental-health support, Safetalk training for educators, high school students and parents on suicide prevention and intervention, trauma-informed professional development to address long-term impacts of the pandemic, a central mental health/well-being support registry and an online hub to navigate mental health and addictions supports and resources.
On Weds., Aug. 18, St. Bartholomew Anglican Church in Windsor Park hosted its third annual Back to School event, which provides community members with free school supplies and clothing to help families in need of a little help. The event was a success and helped over 40 people in the community. If you would like to donate supplies or clothing the church is still accepting donations. Please contact the church at 204-257-8594.
I know the strain of the last two school years has had an impact, and these supports are one way to help our education workforce and students.
I am always available to hear your concerns. Please feel free to reach out to my constituency office by emailing mlaaudreygordon@gmail.com or calling 204-415-7397.
I wish all our students and teachers the best and look forward to seeing the excitement of all the kids as they head back on their first day of school.
Audrey Gordon
Southdale constituency report
Audrey Gordon is the PC MLA for Southdale.