Hammarskjold High school’s principal is remaining stedfast in making sure all students are caught up in their classwork, after the threat disruptions.
Derek Di Blasio acknowledges on-line classes helped many students get further ahead than others.
“The difficult part has been not all students have access to that. And that’s been the hard part, determining which students have access and which students haven’t. And we really want to make sure all students get caught up, so it’s not just the ones that worked ahead or went ahead, but some of the students need the extra support.”
There was a meeting at the school last night with over 100 parents, with the school principal aiming to keep the regular exam schedule at year’s end.
One of the biggest learning experiences the principal says they learned is how hold and secure procedures are handled.
Di Blasio points out the policy has always been there, but to have police tactical teams there was quite stressful for everyone.
“We had students in a room for 3 hours, without a washroom break, without food, that’s been one of the most significant things. So we’re looking at reviewing those policies and procedures, and working with Thunder Bay police.”
The school principal added that’ll also be done with a threat assessment expert.
And, there’s optimism from Hammarskjold high school’s council chair with what she feels is better communication from the Lakehead board.
Cheri Lappage noted focus on students’ success with roughly 40 days left.
“So I think it was really good to hear Principal Di Blasio talking about the fact that they are working, they have a plan, they’ve brought in extra support, kids will be supported at the level they’re at to help them get ahead. That really helps.”
The school’s council chair is hopeful the Lakehead board has learned what to do and what not to do.
Lakehead Board spokesperson Bruce Nugent added the school board simply wasn’t able to make a meeting at a nearby church before the arrests.
