New start date announced for Wellington Catholic school year

Staggered entry now starts Sept. 10 in order to implement additional health, safety measures

GUELPH – The staggered entry for Wellington Catholic District School Board (WCDSB) will now begin on Sept. 10, two days later than originally planned.

“The change will ensure additional health and safety measures suggested by public health for all board classrooms,” officials stated in an Aug. 31 press release.

“This change will also allow time to properly staff and schedule elementary, secondary and the new virtual school, based on the most recent learning option choices by students and families.”

The board recently received additional guidance with respect to health and safety protocols.

“Board staff made the difficult decision to delay the start of the school year in order to fully implement the suggestions prior to welcoming students,” officials said.

The additional time will be used to address staffing issues, complete student schedules and ensure academic and health supports are in place, officials stated.

“We know this is another change in a year of many and we deeply appreciate the patience and flexibility of our families as we adapt to new insights to ensure a safe and successful return for all our students,” said Mike Glazier, director of education.

“The health and safety of our students and staff has always been our top priority in planning our return, and these additional two days will allow staff to prepare schools with additional health and safety measures.”

The staggered entry will take place over a two-week period, with different grades will start the school year on different days.

Staggered entry for students attending school in person will start on Sept. 10.

Students enrolled in the WCDSB elementary and secondary virtual schools will begin on Sept. 14.

Families can review the detailed back-to-school schedule for their child at wellingtoncdsb.ca/SchoolOpening/.