North Shuswap pivots to online learning

After discussions with Interior Health, School District No. 83 (North Okanagan-Shuswap) is implementing a functional closure of North Shuswap School for Dec. 13-17. The school will be pivoting to online learning for this week.

In order to support the North Shuswap Elementary School staff and students who are currently self- isolating due to COVID-19, and because of staffing constraints, it was decided to close the school to in-person learning for the week. In-person classes will resume after winter vacation on Tuesday, January 4, 2022.

Please note, that this is a functional school closure and has not been declared a COVID-19 school outbreak.

Additionally, SD83 has received word that there was a COVID-19 exposure at Ranchero Elementary on Dec. 6, however that no further action is required by the school.

When there is an exposure, Interior Health will directly notify confirmed close contacts of the positive case with further instructions, including if they should self-isolate or self-monitor for symptoms of illness. If you are contacted by Interior Health, or receive a self-isolation/self-monitor letter, it is imperative that you follow their direction carefully. The most important thing for students and families to remember is that students who have any symptoms of COVID-19 should stay home and get tested.

Common symptoms of COVID-19 include cough, fever/chills, shortness of breath, and loss of taste and smell. Most people experience only mild disease.A small number of people may experience a more moderate to severe illness requiring hospitalization.

COVID-19 is spread by respiratory droplets when a person coughs or sneezes. It may also be spread by touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose or eyes before washing your hands.

The Board of Education of School District No. 83 is committed to ensuring all of our students, staff and schools are safe. Please use all the layers of protection available to you.