Ontario’s back-to-school plan is being further enhanced by $381-million in federal funding.
Premier Doug Ford says that’s on top of the nearly $900-million provided by the province to allow schools to reopen.
“Our medical experts and education officials have developed the safest, most cautious school reopening plan in the entire country and this funding will only enhance our plan.”
Ford says the money will target high need areas including ventilation systems and enhancing safety on school buses.
The government will use $12.5-million to hire 125 additional nursing positions in public health units across the province to help schools manage potential COVID-19 cases.
Ford says a total of 625 public health nurses will be available for Ontario schools.
Seventy million dollars is being spent on the temporary hiring of educators as well as $30-million to purchase additional Personal Protection Equipment for schools.
The PC government is also setting aside $50-million for any future pandemic learning needs, to ensure Ontario is prepared for every scenario this Fall.
Here is the funding background:
Reopening Plan Implementation – $200 million
$100 million to complement the health and safety components of school reopening plans, in consultation with local public health units, including the hiring of custodians, HVAC, improvements, internet connectivity for students and other local needs.
$30 million to support additional PPE for schools.
$70 million for the temporary hiring of educators as required.
Student Transportation – $70 million
$44.5 million in support of the Driver Retention Program (DRP).
$25.5 million for route protection and to help reduce the number of students on buses.
Special Education and Mental Health Supports Enhancement – $12.5 million
Will allow boards to hire and train additional staff and provide more mental health supports for students.
Additional Public Health Nurses – $12.5 million
Supports up to 125 additional nursing positions in public health units across the province to help schools manage potential COVID-19 cases.
Remote Learning – $36 million
Ensures that every school board offering virtual learning has a dedicated principal and administrative support for both its secondary and elementary virtual schools.
