Students and teachers in Saint Lucia will return to school on Monday, January 10th 2022.
The announcement was made early Thursday morning by Chief Education Officer, Dr. Fiona Mayer.
According to Dr. Mayer, “a recommendation came from the Department of Health through the office of the Chief Medical Officer, as well as the Covid Management Center and was presented to the Cabinet of Ministers confirming that we are able to continue with the academic year with face-to-face education for students.”
As a result of the spike in COVID-19 cases, most recently 258 in one day, parents turned to school officials for answers regarding the reopening of schools.
School communities and parents have been encouraged by Dr. Mayer to strengthen their protocol management in order to ensure safety for students and families.
The CEO expressed her strong recommendation for parents whose children have been impacted by COVID-19 to keep them at home until they have received the all-clear.
She also made a special appeal to students that they continue following the protocols which included proper masking wearing and avoiding large crowds and gatherings after school.
While offering the Department of Education’s ongoing support to parents and students, Dr. Mayer asked for responsible behaviour that would ensure the health and wellbeing of all the island’s students.