Statement by Dr. Elizabeth Richardson, Medical Officer of Health, on returning to in-school learning in Hamilton

HAMILTON, ON - While, the decision to reopen schools ultimately comes from the Province and advice from the Chief Medical Officer of Health, I am supportive of schools reopening within Hamilton. This is the message I shared with Ontario’s Minister of Education earlier today during a productive conversation we took part in.

We as a community recognize the importance of the return to in-school learning for our students in Hamilton on Monday, February 8, 2021. While there is no single measure that is used to make these determinations, we know that what happens in schools reflects what is happening in the community when it comes to COVID-19. With case numbers coming down, Hamilton Public Health Services’ capacity to support case and contact management improving, and our testing capacity functioning effectively, we agree with the sentiment that schools should be the first thing to reopen for the health of our children. 

We will continue to work collaboratively with our school board partners to support the recommended enhanced health and safety measures to help protect our schools and community as we move forward. 

Additional Resources

• hamilton.ca/coronavirus
• hamilton.ca/reopens
• hamilton.ca/coronavirus/school-planning-covid-19
• covid-19.ontario.ca
• Public Health Services’ COVID-19 Hotline: 905-974-9848 or [email protected]