Cowichan Valley School District No. 79 has redesigned supports to the community in a variety of successful ways amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
For ecample, the district has always supported students through food programs at schools. With those schools hosting in-class learning, it was necessary to rely on the agility of staff and the dedication of many community organizations and people. That change has resulted in the Food For Kids program that is jointly run by this group.
Nearly 400 food hampers were delivered just last week, as connections were made with families around the district, ensuring everyone is provided with what they need to thrive.
The support for Essential Service Workers’ children was a top priority for the district. This week, care to Tier One and Two Essential Service Workers was opened up for nearly 70 children in schools throughout the district.
Educational opportunities continued this week , with more than 700 iPads supplied to families to ensure students have access to the technology that is primarily driving these opportunities.
For families without access to the internet, 150 Wi-Fi enabled iPads will be distributed.
“Whether it is deep cleaning our schools for safety, delivering food for our students and families, providing care for the children of Essential Service Workers or providing at home learning programs, our staff have definitely stepped up!” noted Candace Spilsbury, board chair of the Cowichan Valley School District. “We have deep appreciation for the work everyone is doing to support our kids, families and the community through the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Many schools have also shared video messages to their students and families they have made with their staff to inject a good dose of humour. The videos, coupled with some amazing resources from all over the district, are ensuring students are supported in many different ways.