We hear the term “above and beyond” in our health safety practices. That bears some definition. We deeply value our staff who consistently uphold but are expected to not deviate from the high and well informed standards set by our partners the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Education.
So what does above and beyond expectations mean? We know that other partners in education can find Ministry protocols challenging in terms of consistency and delivery. That is where the mutual respect of staff, students and families in a strongly connected school community like JKCS bears that “above and beyond” fruit.
We are fully accountable for ensuring that the safety practices as articulated by Fraser Health are adhered to vigorously. But, we do not deviate outside of the scope of their instructions as if we are more knowledgeable regarding the science of health. If other schools did that, the virus would more likely gain ground rather than diminish and it would become a chaotic and uncontrolled pathway before us.
Where we are able and in consultation with Fraser Health, we do incorporate additional and appropriate layers of safety. One example includes the purchase and use of Hepa filtration units in each room in both schools. We have good air circulation and make use of open windows in the elementary site. As a brand new building the secondary site has front edge air circulation technology.
We are a Christian school, so what does the Bible say about “above and beyond”?
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
Romans 12:2
Paul Tigchelaar, Lead Principal