After information was circled online about a protest at schools in Ontario, the Renfrew County District School Board has clarified its position to parents.
In a letter obtained by Moose FM, the board says it’s aware of a call to protest set for Friday, February 11th and 2 PM. The call is asking students, parents and others to protest in support of ending mask mandates and restrictions in schools. The board has said that this event is not sanctioned by them, and will not tolerate intimidation or hateful symbols.
The board has assured parents that OPP has been made aware, and if a protest is unlawful or dangerous, they will contact police. School staff will keep protests off school property and will monitor them to make sure that bus and vehicle traffic can move freely.
In addition, the board is advising parents that if they encounter a protest at their child’s school to use caution and approach slowly if they are in a vehicle. If a parent is on foot and engaged by protesters, the board is asking them to be calm and be friendly or neutral in order not to provoke. Students who attend the protest during a class period will be marked absent and their parents or guardians will be notified.
Board Communications Manager Jonathan Laderoute has called these measures precautionary. The board says it remains committed to valuing student voices and the peaceful exchange of ideas.
No word on if local schools will be participating.