Dear JO students, parents & guardians,

I hope this finds everyone as well as can be under these unexpected circumstances.  There is no doubt that we are all witnessing historic events unfold before us, so the number one priority is the health and well-being of you and those around you.

This time is stressful for so many people. To our healthcare workers, our police, firefighters and paramedics, our food service workers, and the many other essential service workers – we are so grateful for you/them. During times of stress, it is hard for anyone to focus on learning, but we will do our best.

Our Physical and Health Education Department has been working towards providing a plan to support the learning needs of our students. It is our hope that students can remain active during these evolving times as we know that physical activity is often very helpful in reducing feelings of anxiety and stress. 

Our current plan is to provide learning opportunities for all grade levels focused on physical activities as well as health-related activities. These activities, tasks and assignments will be sent out through Microsoft Teams virtual classroom. Students will submit assignments (such as fitness logs, journals and/or reflections) digitally for teachers to review. Suggested activities will be provided, keeping the need for safety and physical distancing remaining at the forefront. 

While we do not have all the answers today, we will continue to work to create a plan that supports your needs and ensures continuity of learning.  We remain committed to supporting learning in a way that leads to further completion of the school year and that supports advancement to the next school year and/or graduation.

If you have challenges with time or technology we encourage you to contact us directly (through email or private chat on Teams) so that we may work together on solutions that work for you & your family.

I’ll be sending another check-in email soon focusing on using Microsoft Teams for our classes. Until then, please click on the above pages tab on this blog for more information on accessing this App. You can also click on a variety of on-line health related resources which may be useful to you or someone you know at this time.

Thank you for your patience and remember to stay safe and take care of yourself and your families.

Sincerely,

Ms. Matheson (and the JO Physical & Health Education Department)

kmatheson@vsb.bc.ca