May 20, 2021

Dear Students, Parents, Guardians and Staff,

As we approach the May long weekend, I wanted to reach out, provide you with some updates and resources, and most importantly, acknowledge and thank you for working so hard to heed the province-wide restrictions in place to help stop the spread of COVID-19 and keep members of our community safe.

Our collective efforts are working. By following the provincial guidance and orders (currently in effect until May 24, 2021, midnight), we have seen a noticeable decline not only in the number of COVID-19 cases in our community but also in the number of COVID-19 exposures in schools. This has had a cascading effect--reducing stress on our students and staff and providing normalcy and stability.

We are pleased our staff have had the opportunity to receive or register for their first dose of an approved COVID-19 vaccine, through either the K-12 Vaccine Program administered by Vancouver Coastal Health or the province’s COVID-19 Immunization Plan. We are also encouraged to know the province is on target to provide every eligible adult in B.C. an opportunity to receive their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine by July 1.

As you may be aware, Health Canada has approved the use of the Pfizer vaccine for youth aged 12 to 17. Today, the provincial government announced this group of youth (born in 2009 or earlier) can register and get vaccinated against COVID-19. Please read Vancouver Coastal Health’s COVID-19 Vaccine Update, which contains important information on how youth can book their vaccine appointment, including an FAQ.

Lastly, with travel restrictions in place over the long weekend and residents being encouraged to safely spend time outdoors in their local community, I am pleased to share with you the North Shore Rescue’s “Survive Your Own Adventure” online, interactive video. This video was designed to educate people about making good choices while enjoying the outdoors. Please take some time with your family to go through the different scenarios and learn how you can make the time you spend exploring the North Shore’s many trails, safe, enjoyable and memorable. The video is also available on our new Outdoor Safety web page.

On behalf of the North Vancouver School District, thank you for continuing to be cautious in your interactions and for practicing those behaviours which will continue to keep you, your loved ones and members of our community safe.

Have a wonderful and safe long weekend. We look forward to welcoming you back for the final five weeks of the school year on Tuesday, May 25.

With appreciation,

Mark Pearmain
Superintendent, North Vancouver School District

Superintendent_LongWeekendMessage_Vaccine_NSR.pdf