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COVID-19/Coronavirus Information

We are in close and regular contact with public health experts from Region of Waterloo Public Health & Emergency Services to ensure we have all the most up-to-date, factual information available concerning COVD-19. Similarly, we work in partnership with local school boards in the exchange of information and response plans within our joint system. Region of Waterloo Public Health continues to work closely with local hospitals, health care and community partners, the Ministry of Health, Public Health Ontario and national partners to monitor and respond accordingly to the COVID-19 situation.

Be sure to avoid misinformation. Region of Waterloo Public Health continues to provide up-to-date and evidence-based information on their website so that you have the information you need to make informed decisions about your health:  http://www.regionofwaterloo.ca/2019NovelCoronavirus.

 

The following COVID-19 protocols are in effect at RisingOaks Early Learning:

Masks are recommended.

Masks are recommended as per the Ontario Ministry of Health, though not required at all RisingOaks Early Learning locations and programs. Some staff, parents and/or school-age children may choose to continue to wear a mask. Please be kind and respect each person's choice. Masks will continue to be available at the centre entrance for anyone who would like one.
 
Please be advised that RisingOaks Early Learning reserves the right to re-instate mask requirements at a later date should circumstances change.
 
 
Screening
COVID-19 screening is still required daily using the provincial school/child care screening tool at https://covid-19.ontario.ca/school-screening/. This screener was last updated on February 13, 2023.
 
While you are not required to submit evidence of screening, we thank you in advance for completing a screening - especially if your child or a household member has symptoms of COVID-19.
 
 
Symptom Management
Children and staff who attend RisingOaks Early Learning should remain home if they are ill.
 
Use the provincial school/child care screener for guidance on isolation requirements and impacts to household members. In general:
  •  Stay home (self-isolate) until you do not have a fever and your symptoms have been improving for at least 24 hours (48 hours if you had nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea). Retake this screening every day before you go to school or child care.
Testing
We have received multiple shipments of free rapid antigen test kits from the Ministry of Education. Tests are available for families, staff and placement students. There is no limit on the # of test kits per family.
  • You are strongly encouraged, though not required, to take a test if you have symptoms of COVID-19.
  • If you have symptoms that require an isolation period, a negative result on a PCR test or 2 rapid antigen tests may allow you to complete your isolation earlier. 
  • Testing is a key mitigation factor to reduce transmission to other children and staff within our program. Remember, though, you may test negative for several days on a rapid antigen test before you test positive as the viral load builds. As a result, it is recommended to test more than once.
  • If you are positive on a rapid antigen test you are infectious - isolate to help reduce the spread.
 
Vaccination

Per the guidance of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, RisingOaks promotes vaccination as a key public health measure to protect each other, the children we serve and the community at large.

For anyone seeking to receive a first, second or booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, please visit www.regionofwaterloo.ca/GetaVaccine