In a Monday morning press conference, Ontario Education Minister Stephen Lecce announced expanded targeted asymptomatic COVID-19 testing in the province’s schools, as well as $381 million in education funding provided through the federal Safe Return to Class Fund.
That funding includes money for improved ventilation such as HEPA filters, personal protective equipment, summer learning for kids who have fallen behind, devices for virtual learning and mental health supports. Read the full breakdown here.
To support the expansion of targeted asymptomatic testing, the Ministry of Education has procured test collection capacity for up to 50,000 tests per week, to be deployed at the discretion of local public health units in collaboration with schools, said a Feb. 1 press release from the province. A combination of lab-processed PCR and rapid antigen tests will be used.
Lecce also announced he has worked with the Ontario College of Teachers to allow student teachers to work as substitute teachers, given the current shortage due to COVID-19.
He declined to give a definitive answer to reporters asking when Ontario students in COVID-19 hotspots will return to in-person school, or if March Break will be cancelled.
Play back the livestream of this morning's press conference above.
