Schools in Peel Region closed to in-person learning until April 18

Schools in Peel Region are closed for in-person learning starting Tuesday.

The region’s medical officer of health, Dr. Lawrence Loh, ordered schools in Brampton, Caledon and Mississauga to move classes online for two weeks.

Loh says it may be extended if necessary.

Meanwhile, the top doctor in the Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph public health unit has ordered all schools to stop in-person learning starting Wednesday, with classes to return no sooner than Apr. 19.

In Toronto, the public health unit says it has recommended the closure of 20 schools as COVID-19 cases are investigated.

The Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario and the Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association have also asked for schools in virus hot spots to move classes online until teachers can be vaccinated.

Hamilton public health says it’s working with its school board partners to continue to keep local schools safe.

“We know that what happens in schools reflects what is happening in the community and that’s why it’s vital all community members in Hamilton, even those who have been vaccinated, ensure that public health measures are still being practiced,” it says in a statement.

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Ontario’s Minister of Education Stephen Lecce says schools remain safe but says people must remain “vigilant.”

“It is our  firm belief that schools should be open for in-class learning, as they are critical to student mental health,” said Lecce in a statement.

“Due to our strong infection prevention measures, 99% of students and staff have no active cases of COVID-19.”