A rise in positive COVID-19 tests has resulted in a Windsor elementary school closing next week.
Acting on the advice of the local health unit, the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board (WECDSB) has closed St. Gabriel Catholic Elementary School in Windsor through at least Friday, November 26.
"This decision was made in the best interests of the health and safety of our students and staff," said board spokesman Stephen Fields in an email to WindsorNewsToday.ca. "Prior to dismissal today, students were told that they would be learning online next week."
Fields said parents were already notified about COVID-19 testing, monitoring for symptoms, and instructions for online learning.
On Friday afternoon, the school had six active COVID-19 cases among children, plus two staff members. Five classes were already sent home.
Students were directed to take home belongings, along with any equipment needed for online learning. Students who need devices will be allowed to return to the school parking lot on Monday to pick up board-issued computers and accessories.
The board has also asked students to frequently check their school email accounts for information from their teachers.
St. Gabriel is one of two schools in the English Catholic board under an outbreak protocol. The other is St. Joseph Catholic Elementary in River Canard.
The WECDSB also announced Friday that one positive case apiece of COVID-19 was reported at three elementary schools, St. Teresa of Calcutta and Notre Dame, both in Windsor; Holy Name in Essex and St. Anne Catholic High School in Belle River where four classes were dismissed. At the other schools, one class was told to stay home, on Monday and self-monitor for symptoms.
