Powell River Board of Education is not withdrawing its support for a Brooks Secondary School spring break trip to Europe.
According to a media release, the board met March 4 to discuss the matter. The release stated the board has determined it will not be withdrawing its support for the trip currently, but will be closely monitoring the situation and reserves the right to cancellation, if conditions merit.
The safety of students and staff is always of utmost importance, the release stated. The original itinerary has been adjusted to eliminate Italy and students will only include travel to countries not subject to travel advisories for coronavirus (COVID-19) issued by the Government of Canada.
The information provided to the board of education from EF Tours indicates it will not send groups to destinations deemed unsafe by government authorities; and in certain cases, will continue to implement measures that extend beyond those recommendations to ensure everyone is safe and supported.
According to the release, it is important that parents, students and chaperones involved in this trip know they have the right to cancel their participation and may do so by contacting the travel company directly, and receive a refund or travel credit.
The release stated the board of education supports parent and student choice and believes those who are uncomfortable moving forward with the trip based on global conditions and/or the change in itinerary can feel free to make their own decision in that regard.
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