Stu Henry, Superintendent, Red Deer Public Schools (RDPSD)

By rdnewsNOW staff

Taking Direction

Red Deer Public Schools taking cues from province for COVID-19 response

Mar 12, 2020 | 8:55 PM

The superintendent for Red Deer Public Schools has sent a letter to parents and the community regarding the District’s course of action to address the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Stu Henry says Red Deer Public Schools continues to monitor and respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, and he issued the following statement Thursday evening.

“The health and wellness of all students and staff is our highest priority during this difficult time,” says Henry. “Please know that we are in ongoing contact with Alberta Health Services and Alberta Education following their advice and directives in addressing the pandemic. They are in the best position to provide direction and best practices on how we can best respond, as well as ensuring consistency among school jurisdictions across the province.”

Henry says they urge families to also follow the advice provided by Alberta Health Services in the care of your children and families.

“This afternoon, Alberta Health Services shared significant directives to help reduce the spread and transmission of the COVID-19 virus,” he points out. “These include no large gatherings of 250 people or more, taking precautions for events with less than 250 participants, and recommending no travel outside of Canada.”

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As a result of these directives, Henry says he has directed principals to cancel large events like assemblies, and parent-teacher conferences, etc. in their schools.

“At this time, Alberta Health Services has not recommended school closings, but this may be a future possibility,” he exclaims. “We will provide updates as details emerge. These decisions will be directed by Alberta Health Services and Alberta Education, and not by individual schools or our school division.”

Henry notes that Red Deer Public has developed a web page on each of the District’s websites that will provide complete information and updates.

“This will serve as your go to source on any information and decisions we undertake regarding the pandemic,” says Henry. “We will also utilize School Messenger to distribute information. You can also contact your school administration if you have specific questions.”

“We appreciate your support and understanding during these challenging times,” continues Henry. “We are grateful for the strong leadership and support from Alberta Health Services to provide the best decisions for our schools and the greater community.”