Optional Virtual Learning (registration closed)

The following information was posted on August 11th to advise of the virtual learning option available to Lakehead Public Schools families. The window of opportunity to register for virtual learning was from August 12 to August 22, 2022. Registration for virtual learning is now closed.

Dear Lakehead Public School Families,

We are excited to be thinking about the start of the 2022-2023 school year, and eager to have students back in schools, learning, socializing, making new friends and reconnecting with old ones. 

There are positive signs that this coming year will see a return to normal – vaccination rates are high, cases are dropping, and Ontario is on the receding curve of the “Seventh Wave”.  One of the key learnings from the pandemic is that students learn best in person, that participation in the full school experience is what is best for student learning and mental health and well-being. It is our hope that we see all our students in schools in September. 

However, all school boards in Ontario are required to offer a virtual learning option for students for the 2022-2023 school year. Families who would like their children to learn virtually are required to register for the program by completing this form between 9AM on August 12 and 4PM on August 22, 2022. 

Families should consider the following before choosing the Virtual Learning option for the next school year: 

  • Students who enroll in the Virtual School must remain there until the end of January 2023 – there will be only one opportunity to change modes of learning effective after January 2023;
  • A reliable internet connection is required for the synchronous part of the school day – students will be provided with a laptop if required;  
  • Elementary: There is no programming available for French Immersion or Ojibway as a Second Language. We anticipate a low number of students enrolling, so families can expect their children to be in split grades – possibly even triple splits; 
  • Secondary: There is no programming available for many technology classes such as, but not limited to, welding, construction, and manufacturing. There is no virtual co-operative education available. Many specialized math and sciences courses may not be available due to teacher specialization needs. Low numbers of secondary virtual course requests could result in students being referred to TVO ILC for learning rather than their home school. 

Please take the time to carefully consider what learning experience is best for your child(ren). Questions can be emailed to info@lakeheadschools.ca.