Duncan Christian School has announced that it will be closing operations until February 1 amid multiple COVID-19 exposures.
In a letter sent out by the school, the administration said that there have been multiple days of exposures at the facility and many members of the school community are currently following British Columbia’s health protocols.
“By following precautionary measures, such as isolation, a high number of staff members are affected. This makes it difficult to function operationally,” said Principal Peter Terpstra.
The school indicates that classes will move to at-home learning for the next two weeks as the facility shuts its doors as a safety precaution.
“We will continue to work closely with Island Health, whose team has gone above and beyond for us. We are thankful for their support as they work tirelessly to keep the island and our community safe,” added Terpstra.
In a Facebook post made on Sunday, January 17, Duncan Christian School indicated that there had been possible COVID-19 exposures on Jan. 6, 7, 8, 12, 13, 14 and 15.
“Today, Sunday, January 17, 2021, we received information from Island Health that we have had more cases in our community that have tested positive. The individuals are isolating and are following directions from Island Health,” read the social media post.
Phone calls have been made to the staff and students who are required by Island Health to self-isolate for the next 14 days.
Island Health notes that if a parent or guardian sees a notification on the health authority’s school exposure site, it does not necessarily mean their child has been exposed to COVID-19.
Currently, seven schools within the Island Health authority have reported exposures:
- Chemainus Secondary School
- St. Michaels University School (Junior School) in Victoria
- NIDES/ Navigation SD71 Distance Education in Courtenay
- Quamichan Middle School in Duncan
- Cowichan Secondary School in Duncan
- Duncan Christian School
- Miracle Beach Elementary (on school bus route) in Black Creek
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