Ontario’s Minister of Education, Stephen Lecce, has stated that he does not support Toronto area school board’s decision to end classes early because of the upcoming solar eclipse.
While speaking at Queen’s Park recently, the Minister said while he is in support of school boards altering their PD days because of the rare event, he is “not comfortable” with decisions to close the schools.
He said: “Obviously, the safety of children is most important.
“School boards have the prerogative to use PD days if they want. What I don’t support is closing schools without giving access to children to their educators.”
He made it known that parents who have to work need ad alternatives
Last month, Toronto school boards voted to change their PD day from April 19 to April 8 because of the eclipse. They cited the dangers of viewing the event directly and safety considerations around traffic and commuting.
Meanwhile, the York Region District School Board (YRDSB), said it could not change its PD days due to “contractual obligations” and “prior commitments.”
By implication, YRDSB schools will be dismissing all elementary and secondary school students early.
Official letter written to parents read: “In York Region, we will experience effects of the eclipse between roughly 2:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., which coincides with the scheduled dismissal times for our schools.
“We are working with child care providers to determine their plans for the day. If you have questions about child care, please contact your child’s child care provider directly.”
The school board revealed the decision was made after hearing concerns about students being outside and accidentally looking at the sun, as well as concerns about traffic and walking home in darkness.
Lecce stated that he has “issued his expectation,” but has not directed the school board to change their plans.
