Letter to Families
Jun 4, 2020
Dear Lakehead Public Schools Families:
The well-being of all members of our school communities, including students, families and staff, is a top priority for our school Board. We are writing to let you know that the province released its testing plan on Friday, May 29, 2020, . Ontario now has the most open testing criteria in the country.
Ontario鈥檚 testing guidance now indicates that you should visit an assessment centre if you:
- have at least one of the ;
- do not have symptoms but are concerned you might have been exposed;
- do not have symptoms but think you are at risk through your employment (for example, if you are an essential or health care worker); and
- would like to be tested.
To support Ontarians who have identified the need to get tested, as of May 24, 2020, people will no longer need a referral to go to any of the more than 130 assessment centres across Ontario for testing. No Ontarian will be declined a test.
Given this expanded guidance, if you do choose to get tested, here are a few important notes:
- Testing is voluntary;
- You do not need an OHIP card to be tested. It is a free service.
- Some assessment centres may require you to book an appointment first or have certain restrictions (for example, some are unable to test young children).
- You can also take an to help determine if you should get tested.
- If you are free of symptoms and have not had contact with anyone confirmed to have COVID-19 when presenting for testing, you will not be required to self-isolate. However, you should self-monitor for symptoms for 14 days regardless of your test result. If you begin to develop symptoms, self-isolate and contact your local public health unit for further advice.
Stay informed and visit Ontario鈥檚 to learn more about how the province continues to protect Ontarians from COVID-19. Local information is also available from your .
Sincerely,
Ian MacRae
Director of Education
