Type of Intervention: Specific Action
Sectors Involved: Education
Intervention Categories: Social and physical distancing measures; Reopening schools; Planning and strategy; Creation of or release of plans
Level of Jurisdiction: Ontario
Lead People/Agency: Premier Doug Ford; Ross Romano, Minister of Colleges and Universities; Chief Medical Officer of Health
Overview: The Ontario government has developed a plan for the gradual and safe resumption of activities at post-secondary institutions for the summer term, including in-person instruction. Starting in July 2020, limited in-person education may restart for students that were not able to graduate due to COVID-19. This dual-phase approach begins in July, allowing students to receive in-person instruction for those in essential, frontline, and high labour market demand areas, such as nursing and engineering. In September, all students will have the opportunity to attend post-secondary education using virtual learning, in class instruction, or hybrid formats.
Full details here: https://news.ontario.ca/opo/en/2020/06/ontario-unveils-a-plan-to-reopen-postsecondary-education.html
Other links: 1
Type of Justification: Advice of INTERNAL government advisory committee or group
Source of Evidence or Justification: Sub-national, Ontario framework for reopening the province, Chief Medical Officer of Health
Evidence/Justification: This decision was made in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health and public health officials to ensure that institutions are prepared, implementing proper health and safety protocols to maintain a safe environment for students and staff. The government justified this return to in-person instruction due to the critical need for students to complete their studies so that they can join the workforce, especially in high-demand, frontline roles that will assist in putting the province back on the track to prosperity.