To the Parent(s)/Guardian(s)/Caregiver(s) of SD83:

On behalf of SD83 I wish to thank you for your understanding regarding the “hold and secure” issued on Friday, September 17, 2021. Given the situation that unfolded at several schools in and around Salmon Arm, it was necessary to ensure the safety of all students and staff. Though the term “lockdown” has been reported by some media sources, this is inaccurate. The “hold and secure” we initiated was a means of preventing unauthorized individuals from entering our schools.

After much consultation, we feel confident that the “hold and secure” can be lifted as of tomorrow, September 21, 2021. We have encouraged schools to limit their number of entry points. Most schools will move toward having the main entries locked after the opening bell, the exception may be our Secondary Schools with open campuses. You may gain access to the school by calling the main office. Where possible, additional supervision will be added to playgrounds during recess and noon hours.

Once again, I’d like to thank you for your patience and understanding. The messaging you received on Friday was an attempt to keep you informed and was done in the spirit of transparency. If you have questions or concerns, I would welcome a thoughtful and respectful conversation.

We look forward to moving ahead and focussing our attention on the wonderful achievements of our students.

Sincerely,

Donna Kriger
Superintendent of Schools

To the Parent(s)/Guardian(s)/Caregiver(s) of SD83 Students: 

I want to extend my thanks to you for the patience and understanding you have demonstrated over the first few days of school start up. The accounts being shared from our schools speak to the excitement and hope which exists among the students and staff.  

As a district we are grateful that many of the restrictions imposed during the last school year have been removed. However, the Ministry of Education and the Provincial Health Officer have mandated masking among all Grade 4-12 students due to the prevalence of the Delta variant. The province has also requested that school districts cooperate with their local health regions to accommodate pop up vaccination clinics at some school sites for families and students who are 12 years of age and older.  

I would ask that you carefully read the documents we are sharing on behalf of Interior Health. As an educational organization we believe parents/guardians/caregivers play an important and necessary role in educating their child(ren). As a result, I ask that you take the time to discuss the topic of vaccination with your child(ren).  

We are grateful for you our stakeholders, as you are much needed partners in ensuring our schools remain open for face-to-face instruction.  We have high confidence in our school staffs along with members of the transportation, facilities and custodial team who continue to work tirelessly to ensure the safety of your children while they are in our care.  

Wishing you and those you love health and wellness. 

Donna L. Kriger,
Superintendent of Schools

Letter from Interior Health

If the links don’t work in the letter please click on the following:

Public Health Communicable Disease Guidance for K-12 Schools

Interior Health Order

Clinic Dates and Times

To learn more about Mature Minor Consent

SD83’s Communicable Disease Safety Plan is now available. The purpose of this document is to provide School District No. 83 staff, parents, students, and visitors with important information that is required to help prevent communicable disease.

In meeting the Ministry of Education’s overarching principles for the COVID-19 response, School District No. 83 will be following these principles with respect to health and safety:

• All schools and facilities will adhere to the standards, guidelines, and direction from the Provincial Health Officer (PHO) and WorkSafeBC.

• In collaboration with education partners, the Ministry may develop additional health and safety requirements for all schools to ensure consistency across the K-12 system. These additions will enhance, not duplicate, PHO and WorkSafeBC requirements.

• Psychological safety measures and trauma-informed practice will be valued and implemented alongside physical health and safety measures.

• Effective communication with all community partners, parents, caregivers, students, unions, and employees is an essential aspect of successfully implementing these guidelines.

Read complete plan here