The director of education for the Lambton Kent District School Board says in a community of 25,000 students and staff, it's exceptional to have had just 28 confirmed COVID-19 cases so far.
John Howitt told Sue Storr on CHOK (103.9 FM, 1070 AM) Tuesday morning that 50 of their schools have not had a confirmed case.
"Really there has not been school spread to the degree that we're seeing in other areas across the province," said Howitt. "Kudos to our families and guardians of our students, who are being super cautious."
Howitt said of the 28 positive cases impacting 12 school communities, only nine were under the school roof when confirmed.
He said over the two week holiday break, they will continue to meet with public health officials.
"One of the things that we've learned through those meetings is that the virus just does not live on surfaces, it requires something to live. Now there are some research studies out there, but just by having the schools closed for two weeks is the best kind of deep cleaning you can do."
There'll be a refresher course on pandemic safety measures when classes resume in the new year.
Howitt said educational changes prompted by the pandemic provide food for thought in their planning next year.
"If we're allowed to continue with a virtual school, do we? Is that the right way to learn for some students who have unique learning needs? Are two courses a quadmester better than four cases a semester? Do you do A.M. and P.M. splits?"
-With files from Sue Storr
