The TDSB Actually Has No Clue If They Can Make Ford's Outdoor Grad Parties Happen
Toronto's school board only found out about the premier's celebration plans yesterday.
While announcing that Ontario's schools will stay closed until September, Premier Doug Ford said that schools can and should host outdoor grad ceremonies for students in all grades so they can get together with their peers before summer.
Minister of Education Stephen Lecce said in a June 2 press conference that school boards can begin to plan these in-person events with their local medical officers of health.
However, this news came as a surprise to the Toronto District School Board. In a letter to parents on its website, the school board stated that it heard the announcement at the same time that the rest of Ontario did, and didn't have any plans to share.
"At this point in time, we do not know what may be possible with regard to offering 'short, outdoor graduation celebrations' as discussed during today's government announcement," said the TDSB.
"We have just learned this information today and are awaiting further information from the province on parameters for outdoor gatherings, along with guidance from Toronto Public Health, prior to making any decision on these events." The school board confirmed to Narcity on June 3 that it has no updates at this point in time.
Ontario has not yet reached its first step of the provincial reopening plan, which is slated for June 14. However, the premier said on Tuesday that he's hopeful it could begin sooner. In step one, gatherings of up to 10 people are permitted outside.