COVID-19 UPDATE MARCH 20, 2020 - 10:32 a.m. - Important Information from Alberta Education
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented change to us all. It has also brought us together. Our entire NGPS staff family has been working hard to develop instructional alternatives for students. We know families have a lot of questions. At this time, we would like to share the following information:
CONTINUING STUDENT LEARNING
Today, the Government of Alberta released new Content Delivery Guidelines to direct how students will learn while in-school classes are canceled.
All Kindergarten to Grade 12 students, regardless of their geographic location or socioeconomic status will receive at-home learning opportunities, either through online means or through other accommodations, such as course packages and telephone check-ins.
The Education Minister affirmed that every K-12 student will receive final grades and a report card for the 2019-2020 school year and that students who were on track to progress to the next grade, will do so.
The Minister also announced in today’s press release, that Grade 12 Diploma Exams are canceled.
Staff will continue to work to ensure learning expectations are met. NGPS will continue to communicate with families as more information becomes available.
QUESTIONS ABOUT SCHOOL FEES
We have received a number of questions about fees and refunds for the remainder of the year. We appreciate that during this time of uncertainty, families are looking for clarification and direction on all impacts of class cancelation.
NGPS collects a variety of fees from student transportation to instructional services to student activity fees. In most cases, fees paid will be refunded fully or on a pro-rated basis contingent on the nature of the service or the activity involved.
Generally, inquiries about school-based activity fees can be directed to the school site.
For fees associated with student transportation or personnel/program related fees (ie. full day Kindergarten or pre-school) refunds will be calculated, processed and mailed when classes resume or June 30th, whichever comes first.
Should you have any further questions, please contact your local school Principal or the office of the Secretary-Treasurer.
STUDENTS’ BELONGINGS
Schools will communicate to parents about how and when they are able to pick up students’ belongings. Pick-up times will be staggered to ensure we’re supporting safe social distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
STAFF
Our Division is implementing a work-from-home protocol. Some critical staff remain in our facilities. This decision aligns with new public health measures that include restrictions on gatherings of more than 50 people.
Staff who are sick, including those with mild cold symptoms, are expected to stay home and follow all guidance from Alberta Health Services.
As always, we appreciate your support, patience and cooperation. Stay well!