As we have seen the world rapidly shift over the past few months, our school is focused on moving forward with an educational experience that will provide our students with the skills they need, both now and in the future – in a format that is flexible.
We have been working diligently to reopen our school for the 2020/21 School Year. To offer our parents flexibility, we offer both in-person and online classes. Regardless of format, we will not compromise on providing your child with rich learning experiences that cover the full curriculum for each grade level.
Virtual Classes FAQ
Can my child attend virtual classes instead of in-person?
Yes. Our full academic program is available to students via virtual classes for students who wish to remain at home. Both methods of instruction will ensure a high level of academics and engagement for students.
What does a virtual class look like?
Online classes will include face-to-face learning via video conferencing with a dedicated teacher each day from 9am until 3pm, with additional weekly afterschool programming. Students will have all courses online that they would typically expect in class. Homework, group work, presentations – and yes even tests, will all be a part of the enriched online learning environment.
What do I need for online classes?
Computer or laptop with a keyboard, camera, audio and microphone is essential. Students will also need an internet connection and basic school supplies (Ex. notebook, pencils, etc.)
Do I have to log in to my online course at a specific time of day?
Yes. Online courses are delivered live each day with a dedicated teacher. Students will be expected to attend all classes as if they were in a typical classroom.
In-Person Classes – Staying Safe @ Seneca Hill
We have been working diligently to prepare for our September re-opening and ensuring our safety measures are above and beyond those of the guidelines provided by public health and the Ministry of Education.
All measures are being designed to ensure that our campus is safe for our students, staff, and the entire Seneca Hill community. We have been consulting with medical experts, health service providers, and aligning our new practices with government authorities and recommendations. Here are some of the new measures that we are implementing:
- We have hired a full-time cleaning staff, whose only job is to circulate through the school and sanitize frequently used areas. For example, bathrooms will be cleaned hourly.
- We have enhanced our cleaning and sterilizing protocols. All high traffic areas including desks, handrails, door handles, and surfaces will be frequently washed and sterilized.
- We will follow a cohort model and student interaction will be limited within their own grade and with only one homeroom teacher. Students as always, will have plenty of outdoor time, gym time and social time with classmates.
- Pick-up and drop-off of students will take place at the main entrance doors where there will be screening and temperature checks. Pick-up and drop-off times will be staggered to minimize the traffic.
- All individuals who enter the school are required to wear a mask or face covering.
- Parents will be asked to wait at the door for their child. Parents will not be permitted in the school, unless absolutely necessary.
A complete and detailed safety policy will be shared with families closer to September. Overall, you can rest assured that if you do plan to send your child for in-person classes, it will be a safe place for them to learn.
Despite all safety measures, if you prefer to have your child attend classes virtually, we will continue to have all classes available via live video conferencing.
Covid-19 FAQs
Will in-person classes be open during COVID-19?
Yes. Our school campus is closed for the summer, but we are making arrangements for in-person classes to resume for the 2020/21 school year starting on September 8, 2020 with significant safety protocols in place.
How will the school operate to ensure everyone's safety in class?
The safety of all students, families and staff remains a top priority. We will be taking the following measures:
- All individuals who enter the school are required to wear a mask or face covering.
- We will follow a cohort model and student interaction will be limited within their own grade and with only one homeroom teacher. Students as always, will have plenty of outdoor time, gym time and social time with classmates.
- Pick-up and drop-off of students will take place at the main entrance doors where there will be screening and temperature checks. Pick-up and drop-off times will be staggered to minimize the traffic.
- We have enhanced our cleaning and sterilizing protocols. All high traffic areas including desks, handrails, door handles, and surfaces will be frequently washed and sterilized.
- Any staff or student who is experiencing a fever or symptoms will be asked to stay at home and not permitted in the school until they have a clean bill of health.
We willbe monitoring all government guidelines and adjusting our protocols accordingly.
Are parents or visitors allowed into the school?
To limit the traffic in the school, parents and visitors will not be permitted in the school, unless absolutely necessary. Parents will be asked to wait at the door for their child during pick up and drop off. If a parent has any questions or concerns, phone or video conferences can be arranged with our staff.
Are masks required?
All staff and adults who enter the school are required to wear a mask or face covering. Children over the age of 4 must also wear a mask.
What are the school day hours?
Our in-person academic program runs from 8:45am – 4:00pm.
Extended morning hours for drop off are from 7:30am – 8:45am and extended afternoon hours for pick up run from 4:00pm – 5:30pm.
What can I do to protect myself and others?
As usual, practicing good hand hygiene is an easy way to stop the spread of any germs. This includes washing hands with soap and water, using hand sanitizer, coughing or sneezing into your elbow, and staying at home if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms.
Practice physical distancing, stay at least 2 meters away from each other or allowing others to pass before proceeding.
Guidance from public health authorities indicates that passing encounters such as walking by someone with COVID-19 or being briefly in the same room at less than two meters is not be considered a close contact and does not put you at an increased risk of Infection.
Those with symptoms should stay home.
What will happen if there is a second wave of the pandemic during the fall term?
We understand concerns about a possible second wave of the pandemic and will be prepared to move all classes to a virtual platform if necessary. We will continue to follow the requirements of government and public health authorities, while also having plans in place for a transition to virtual learning from in-person classes if necessary.
Will lunch still be provided?
Contact us
We welcome families to get in touch with us and learn more about how our school can help unlock the potential in your child. We would be happy to arrange for a private tour to see our campus and facilities, arrange a call, or set up a video conference with our principal. To book an appointment please contact us at 416.499.8790 or [email protected].
Directions: We are located at Don Mills and Lawrence, adjacent to the Shops on Don Mills.
Address: 33 Overland Drive North York, Ontario M3C 2C3
Tel: 416.499.8790
Email: [email protected]