November 11th, 2016

With deep regret the Waterloo Region District School Board has made the decision to cancel all previously scheduled travel to Belgium and France.

We understand the disappointment this decision causes our students, staff and families. Our primary concern is always the safety and security of our students and staff – each and every one.

We rely on the expertise of the Government of Canada Travel Advice and Advisory website to provide us with information relating to the safety and well-being of our students when travelling abroad.

Currently, the Government of Canada is advising travellers to “exercise a high degree of caution” when travelling to Belgium and France. Our Administrative Procedure 1580 Off Campus Categories I II III indicates that “only countries with a designation of ëExercise Normal Security Precautionsí will be considered as destinations.”

The board is taking steps to fully reimburse all students who paid a deposit to attend trips to the Vimy Ridge commemoration in April 2017. On Monday, we will send letters to the parents and caregivers of the affected students to inform them of this decision.