January 31, 2022
Students in We'koqma'q are still learning online but their administration has made preparations and plans for their safe return.
They have installed a Clean Flow air purifier in every classroom (Larger classrooms have 2 units) These purifiers all contain a hepa-filter, activated carbon filter and a UV sterilizing lamp.
They have received 1500 3 ply cotton masks for the school and have also ordered 1000 KN95 masks for staff. They also have testing kits available for students and staff once they return to school in-person.
Plans have been put in place to continue having a day-janitor who sanitizes all surfaces with a spray unit throughout the day. The day janitor will also wash and sanitize masks following a strict protocol.
We'koqma'q school will have staggered recesses and each wing of the school will enter through their own separate door. Also, the bus will be sanitized between each bus trip and emergency masks are provided for the bus in case any student forgets their mask home. The K-4 students will travel on a separate bus because they are too young to be vaccinated. Students will be asked questions about how they are feeling each day as they arrive in the morning, and will be monitored for cold symptoms throughout the day. As always, students who are not feeling well will be encouraged to stay home.
Most Post-Secondary students have now returned to school, either in-person, online, or some type of hybrid model. Katy Michael, the Post-Secondary navigator for We'koqma'q has been checking in with students to support them through yet another challenging year. She has developed a webpage for post secondary students in the community where they can find information on scholarships and other inportant information