All Ontario school boards will be required to offer virtual learning as an option for students for the entire school year starting in September.

“The truth is what we heard is parents want the choice for this September and what I can confirm we are ensuring every board in Ontario will provide that choice of virtual learning experience,” said Education Minister Stephen Lecce.

But Education Minister Stephen Lecce has no clear answer about when or even if students will return to in-class learning this school year saying the decision will be made by the Chief Medical Officer of Health.

“He has not changed his position on the matter because as we all see our hospitals face great levels of stress.” Lecce added the Premier’s commitment is to not take a risk with your child.

Lecce also announced $2B in new funding to support school boards with COVID costs for the upcoming year and $80M for mental health programs for students.

The NDP’s education critic Marit Stiles accuses the Ford government of trying to save money off the backs of students and parents.

“It’s extremely clear, that Doug Ford and Stephen Lecce are trying to push the province forward toward permanent online learning.”