Children with special needs will get the opportunity to return to school next week.
On Thursday, the province announced an extension of remote learning for elementary and secondary school students with a scheduled return date of January 25. Additionally, the Ministry of Education has directed school boards across Ontario to offer support to students with special education needs.
The Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB) said it has begun to reach out to families of students enrolled in special education classes to review the option.
"We recognize that remote learning may present challenges for students with significant special needs," said TVDSB Education Director Mark Fisher. "That is why we are providing parents and guardians with the option for these children to return to school on Monday."
During a press conference Friday, Education Minister Stephen Lecce announced asymptomatic testing will start being rolled out in schools across Ontario. He also said the province will spend $380-million to hire more custodians and improve HVAC systems.