To our community,
COVID 19 has certainly demanded our attention and based on what has been relayed via the media and Department of Education Updates I think it is wise to provide clear information about immediate and medium actions our colleges will be pursuing in the light of this never before experienced situation.
The Department of Education provided advice over the weekend regarding community meetings with people other than staff and students. As a result we will not be holding the WMYC On Show Year 6 to 7 Information evening this Wednesday at Felltimber Campus. The presentation by Dr Michael Carr-Gregg from 6.00pm in the PAC will also be cancelled.
The WSSC Student Progress Interviews also scheduled for Wednesday will now be conducted virtually. Parents will be informed about the options available to them on how to connect to their teacher interviews on Monday and Tuesday.
Given the temporary closure of now three secondary schools in Victoria we need to be aware that we may face a similar situation here. We have the capacity to run our schools virtually. We are in a position for our students to continue their academic program even if they are isolated at home. In the event of a temporary closure the learning program will continue with the same timetable but virtually from home. It will NOT be an extended holiday! Trials will be conducted this week to ensure our Learning Management Systems and Desire to Learn portals are available to all students.
We have a few staff and students who have very low immunity. If staff or students are feeling sick they must stay home. The consequences of being exposed to a virus or the flu for a well person are a lot less serious than for someone whose immunity is already compromised.
I have also attached information that may assist you if your child is anxious regarding the current pandemic.
Headspace has provided the resources below that you may wish to use with your staff and families:
Reach Out Schools – https://schools.au.reachout.com/natural-disasters/dealing-with-bad-world-news
Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth (ARACY)
How to talk to your children about coronavirus – Worried about your child getting coronavirus? Here’s what you need to know – The best way to avoid COVID-19 infection (and infection with any other respiratory virus) is by washing your hands with soap and water, using a tissue or the crook of your elbow to cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze and by avoiding close contact with others who are unwell.
See link below for headspace’s new factsheet regarding Covid-19 https://headspace.org.au/young-people/how-to-cope-with-stress-related-to-covid-19/
As you would understand this is a continually changing landscape and we are being updated of changes and requirements on a daily basis. Significant changes will be bought to your attention as soon as we are informed.
Vern Hilditch
Executive Principal
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