School has commenced and Nicole Kurtz enters her first year as the Director of Education for the Kenora Catholic District School Board.
She says that we can expect a ‘relatively’ normal school year.
“We will continue with health and safety measures like increased ventilation, heightened cleaning and sanitation, encouraging good hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette. The daily screening is still happening and rapid tests will still be available. But masks are optional, but respected if those are more comfortable wearing them.”
COVID-19 put a hard pause on out-of-school activities, and Kurtz is eager for other forms of education outside of the class.
“Sports and field trips are back to normal. We know that the kids look forward to it a lot. It’s exciting to have those opportunities right at the start of the school year.”
Kurtz succeeds Paul White who announced his retirement last year.
“It’s exciting and a little nerve-racking of course going into the new role. It'll be a steep learning curve. I’m lucky as I’m so well supported by the staff and trustees of the board. They’re making this transition smooth for me - making me feel confident and competent."
KCDSB schools hosted a number of events for students and families ahead of the school year, as a way to gently step back into the environment and relieve any stresses.
“It’ll be a big year for me, for sure! Looking forward to it!”