Learning Pods remain physically closed, move to online learning

November 10, 2020

By Odette Wilson

Learning Pods remain temporarily closed

As a precautionary measure, the Musqueam Learning Pods closed on October 29. There were two potential COVID-19 exposure events at Vancouver schools, and the pods were closed to ensure no transmission had occurred.

This past Saturday, November 7, the Provincial Health Officer issued new public health orders that require all individuals and businesses in the Lower Mainland to significantly reduce the level of social interactions and travel.

In an effort to follow these orders, Musqueam Administration is keeping the learning pods closed for at least two additional weeks. Pods will transition to online learning, and in-person learning will resume once it is deemed safe. Musqueam Education is evaluating the physical education and traditional ecological knowledge classes to ensure the highest level of health and safety, while providing a comfortable and engaging learning environment.

To date, there remains no confirmed COVID-19 cases within the Learning Pods or on the Musqueam Reserve.

About the Musqueam Learning Pods

Since opening in September, the Musqueam Learning Pods have successfully provided an option for on-reserve community members to safely learn at home during COVID-19.

Musqueam elementary and secondary students stay enrolled in their Vancouver School Board or private/independent schools and receive weekly learning packages from their classroom teachers. Learning pod teachers and assistants support students to complete their packages in a classroom setting with other students their age.

There are six learning pods in different locations throughout Musqueam Reserve, all following COVID-19 protocols to ensure the safety of students, staff and the entire community.

The Musqueam Learning Pods are a unique learning opportunity that will change the ways our youth are educated on Musqueam Reserve. The pods are made possible because of our close relationships with schools throughout Vancouver, and the Musqueam staff who took on roles as teachers and assistants to ensure our youth are educated safely during a global pandemic.