Schools remain in restricted orange as Winnipeg transitions into Critical Level (Red)

On Friday, October 30, 2020, Manitoba’s Provincial Public Health Officer, Dr. Brent Roussin, announced that Winnipeg Metro Region, will move into the critical red pandemic response level as of Monday, November 2, 2020.  

The new restrictions are a temporary response to the recent rise in COVID-19 cases in the province.  Manitoba Public Health officials took a close look at education, and shared that the additional measures put in place enables schools to safely remain in Restricted Level (Orange). School divisions across Winnipeg, including Pembina Trails School Division, will continue to welcome students into our buildings. Two additional restrictions are that extra-curricular sports will be put on pause and masks must be worn, by Grades 4-12 students, during physical education classes even when 2 metre distancing is maintained.

"We know the central role education plays in our community and believe that the best place for students to learn is in our schools. Pembina Trails staff have gone above and beyond to make sure all public health guidelines are met and that students feel comfortable learning in class. We find encouragement when we look to countries such as Germany and France, where schools remained safely open while the country entered lockdowns," said Ted Fransen, superintendent, Pembina Trails School Division.

We want to thank our K-6 parents and guardians for taking the time to complete the recent survey that was sent out. We understand there are families needing some interim alternative learning options during this time. Our temporary K-6 remote learning begins on Monday, November 2, 2020. There is no change to our restricted orange level plans for Grades 7-12. To learn more, please visit our orange plan information page.

As always, we aim to keep our community updated during this ever-changing pandemic. Please continue to visit our website and follow us on social media. If you have any questions, please connect directly with your school leaders.

Please remember this is not forever. We find strength in community and are extremely proud of our staff for stepping up, so that students and families can continue to be supported during these challenging times.