May Day – event cancellation
Dear parents, students, staff and community members,
In this unprecedented time of the COVID-19 outbreak, we, as a District, have had to make many changes to how we do business. And we have done so by taking guidance and direction from the health authorities who have the lead on this evolving situation … looking to them for guidance on best-practice and required safety measures.
Not only has that been true at a District level, but at every level of government as well. In New Westminster, both the City and the Provincial government took steps to call states of emergency to help them enact restrictions, closures and enforce other preventative measures. That includes everything from the suspension of in-class instruction in K-12 schools to closures of playgrounds and various other shared outdoor spaces.
In every decision we make, we must keep the safety of our community as our top priority. And that means considering how requirements around limited gathering sizes, safe physical distancing and the general advice to “stay home when you can” affects all that we do.
In light of all of these factors, it is with regret that we are announcing the cancellation of this year’s May Day event.
We know how deeply connected many are to the annual festivities … and this was to be a milestone year as the 150th celebration. We acknowledge the additional disappointment this adds.
To the students, staff and neighbours who stepped forward – eager to participate and help – we send additional thanks to you for your time and commitment.
But, in order to keep our students, staff, families and our wider community safe and well, this was the only appropriate decision at this time.
We must continue to work collaboratively, in all we do, to help flatten the curve. We must all be in this together.
On behalf of the Board of Education, thank you for your understanding.
Respectfully,
Karim Hachlaf
Superintendent of Schools / CEO