Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools says they have put concerted effort into a plan to deal with anticipated increases in staff absences due to COVID-19. And, as expected, they have seen higher rates of absenteeism due to COVID-related issues of illness, or isolating. The Board of Education receives a report on the matter at Monday’s meeting. The report indicates that, despite the absences, operations have been able to continue quite well.

The report also says that, while there has been much talk of changing the length of the Christmas break, it has been decided to continue as is. However, the division says there remain questions regarding post-break and what should be done. The division says they will continue to work with the local Medical Health Officer and others to determine any operational changes. Of particular focus may be high school operations.

Another change involves the mask provisions for students. Since the beginning of the year, Pre-K to Grade 3 students were following the guideline that masks are strongly recommended. The report says this has been amended to align with the current masking language which states, masks are required of all students.