Children's Health Coalition: response to the Ontario Science Table's brief on school re-opening

TORONTO, July 19, 2021 – The Children’s Health Coalition strongly urges the Ontario government to adopt the expert advice of the report issued today by the Ontario COVID-19 Science Advisory Table supporting the safe return to in-person learning in schools this coming September. 

The Table’s report makes the benefits of such a return very clear not only for development but, just as importantly, for the overall health and well-being of Ontario’s children and youth. The Coalition is especially heartened to see the emphasis placed on extracurricular activities like music, sports and clubs. These social opportunities can help address the effects of prolonged social isolation, which include lasting physical and mental health concerns for many. 

The pathway to a safe return to in-person learning is as clear as the benefits. Monumental efforts have been made by many people across the province, including government, public health, hospitals and a variety of providers and organizations, to ensure every eligible person has the opportunity to get fully vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus. Significant uptake of the vaccine is happening in communities across Ontario, which will help school boards in their respective local planning for September. To support increasing vaccination rates, we are calling for province-wide communication strategies targeted to youth and parents.  All Coalition members would like to offer our support and ongoing collaboration to advance these communications efforts.

Students belong in the classroom. It’s where they learn, develop, grow and thrive. Short of catastrophic circumstances taking place, schools should remain open for in-person learning this coming school year. Our children’s health, well-being and futures depend on it.

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About the Children's Health Coalition: The Children's Health Coalition is a growing collective of children's health organizations, including CHEO, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, SickKids, McMaster Children’s Hospital, Children’s Hospital – London Health Sciences Centre, Children’s Mental Health Ontario and Empowered Kids Ontario.