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Province Expanding Testing And Enhancing School Protocols With Funds From The Federal Government | Kawartha 411 KAWARTHA LAKES-As more students return to class today, the Ontario government says it is providing an additional $381 million, provided through the federal Safe Return to Class Fund, to keep schools safe from COVID-19. This funding will be used improve air quality and ventilation in schools, support online learning, promote student mental health and hire additional staff according to officials. "To protect Ontario students and staff, and with the aim of reopening all schools, we have again strengthened our plan with tougher measures and new investments," said Education Minister Stephen Lecce. "We agree with parents and medical experts that kids need to be learning in class - alongside their friends and teachers - as it is crucial for their mental wellbeing and development. We will continue to follow expert medical advice and work to get all schools open, for children in all regions of our province." Ontario's Chief Medical Officer of Health and leading medical and scientific experts, including the Hospital for Sick Children, support the safe return to in-person learning for students and staff and are encouraged by Ontario's experience in safely reopening schools in September. This was evidenced in the data on COVID-19 cases in schools during the Fall, at a time of lower community transmission As of February 1, 2021, more than 520,000 students across Ontario will be able to learn in- person. To support their safe return, and on the best advice of experts, Ontario is introducing additional measures to further protect students and staff, including: Courtesy Pexels Max Fischer Province Expanding Testing And Enhancing School Protocols With Fund... https://www.kawartha411.ca/2021/02/01/province-expanding-testing-and... 1 of 3 2/1/2021, 12:43 PM