Public health and school officials are urging students and parents in Lambton-Kent to be careful if they're travelling this March Break.
Lambton-Kent District School Board Education Director John Howitt, St. Clair Catholic District School Board Education Director Scott Johnson, and Chatham-Kent Medical Officer of Health Dr. David Colby want people to have fun but are asking them to follow the international travel rules if they go out of the county and stay safe.
Dr. Colby said lining up at airports comes with a risk and people should use caution.
"It would be prudent to worry about a possible spike in cases following something like March Break with people travelling," said Colby.
Howitt said he recognizes the value of leisure, vacations, and family time towards mental health and well-being and acknowledges people are excited but he wants them to have a safe vacation.
"Many of our families, staff and students will be travelling throughout this March Break. We wish them well and we hope they have a safe vacation," Howitt said.
Officials remind students to use the school COVID-19 screener before they return to class on March 21, 2022. Johnson said students who test positive for the virus will continue to learn at home so they don't fall behind in their studies.
Dr. Colby said schools are running very well, something echoed by Johnson. Johnson said staff and student attendance is increasing every week after the most recent COVID-19 surge closed schools after the Christmas Break.
"I want to thank you again for your ongoing support throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and for respecting the public health measures that have helped to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in our schools, which protects the health and safety of our students and staff," said Johnson. "Like you, I am hopeful that we are beginning to see promising signs for a future filled with hope for a gradual return to pre-pandemic norms."
March Break runs March 14-18, 2022.
