Steinbach Regional Secondary School (SRSS) in Steinbach, Man., has been placed in a hold-and-secure protocol due to anti-mandate protests outside the building.
A statement from the Hanover School Division (HSD) says the exterior doors are locked and are being monitored, with students and staff able to come inside.
“Today’s protest created an unsafe environment and disrupted in-class learning for our students,” HSD superintendent, Shelley Amos, tells Global News.
“Protestors were on school property and made efforts to enter the school building.”
The division says everyone is safe, and RCMP are on-scene.
Spokesperson for the Manitoba RCMP, Sgt. Paul Manaigre, says his officers haven’t seen any criminal behaviour, but are there to ensure peace is maintained.
Amos acknowledges that parents and caregivers of SRSS students may have differing opinions on the school’s handling of COVID-19.
“We respect the right to protest but urge all protestors to be respectful, peaceful and remain off school property during demonstrations.”
The school will move to remote learning according to a letter sent to families, which will give staff an opportunity to assess the impact of the event, connect virtually with students and ensure everyone is prepared for a safe return.