Halton, Niagara public high schools to return to 4-course per day schedule

Public high schools in Halton and Niagara regions will be returning to a four-course per day schedule starting Monday.

Halton District School Board (HDSB) and District School Board of Niagara (DSBN) notified families on Tuesday that students would be switching back to the traditional semester next week.

“Returning to a regular four course per day semester system is a welcome change for both students and staff, as it supports student learning in all their courses without interruptions. Student voice has advocated for a more equitable schedule that also supports their mental health and well-being,” said DSBN in a news release.

In Niagara, the public school board says COVID-19 safety protocols will remain including daily screening for both students and staff, limited visitors and spectators for indoor sports and events, and school assemblies will continue to be paused. Extracurricular activities that were reintroduced in the fall will continue with safety measures still in place.

HDSB says health and safety protocols put in place during the pandemic will also continue. The board says the decision to return to the semester model was made due to the high rates of vaccination among youth aged 12 to 17.

HDSB and DSBN say the return to a four-period school day is supported by both the Ministry of Education and local public health units.