BMC COVID Update #3

November 4, 2020 → 3:00 PM

Dear Parents and Students, 

As you are aware from our communication earlier today, a second positive case of COVID-19 was confirmed in our school community as of this morning.  We were able to quickly respond to ensure the health and safety of all students and staff.  Though students were not in close contact with this staff member, a number of other staff were.  Alberta Health Services requires that the affected cohort of staff must quarantine for 14 days.  As a result of a staff shortage and to allow for enhanced cleaning, in-school classes at BMC were canceled for today, November 4, 2020.

Please note the following for students returning to BMC on Thursday, November 5 for in-class learning:

• BMC students in grades 7, 10, 11, and 12 are welcome to return to school, commencing November 5.
• Bussing will proceed as regularly scheduled.
• Staff not required to quarantine, along with available substitute teachers, will be working with students to support continuity of learning. 
• The dates for High School final exams for Quarter 1 will be extended or alternative assessment options will be provided where necessary.
• Grade 8 and 9 students will continue to engage in remote learning via Google Classroom, as will teachers who are required to self-isolate or quarantine (where appropriate).  
• We are excited that Mrs. Melissa Humby, former principal of BMC, will return to provide onsite administrative leadership at BMC while Mr. Meyers and Miss Townsend are required to quarantine.

We remind families to monitor for any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 using the Alberta Health Daily Checklist.  Please remember to verbally complete the checklist each day prior to attending school.  If you or a member of your family has any of the symptoms of illness listed, please fill out the online Alberta Health Services COVID-19 self-assessment or call Health Link at 811 and stay home.

We continue our focus on preventing the spread of COVID-19 with our strict adherence to health protocols including cohorting of students, hand hygiene, masking, and social distancing measures.  We are confident that with everyone following these protocols, we can continue to keep BMC safe for our students.

We will continue to work closely with Alberta Health Services and the Medical Officer of Health to ensure that we follow their ongoing recommendations.  The health and safety of our students and staff remains our first priority, and we are confident in the measures we have in place.  Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have.  Thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely, 

Jon Meyers