As you know, the province lifted mask requirements in most public settings on March 21. On advice from health partners and after conferring with Ontario’s college leaders, Centennial College opted to keep its masking mandate. We did commit at the time to continue to monitor the situation and reassess as applicable.
We are now following through on that commitment. With the province removing the last of its mask mandates (except for long-term care and retirement homes) earlier this month, many universities and colleges have, or are now lifting, their mask mandates.
Consequently, we have decided to make mask-wearing optional inside all campuses and College-owned facilities as of this Friday, July 1.
Mask-friendly/mask-optional campuses
It’s important to note that Centennial College will remain a mask-friendly environment where everyone is free to make the best decision for themselves. Please respect each other’s choice and support those who remain anxious in crowded areas. Given the past two-plus years, understandably this is not an easy adjustment to make.
As we ease out of the pandemic, it’s important to take precautions. Please stay home if you:
- Test positive for COVID-19, or
- Are experiencing symptoms, or
- Have been in close contact with someone with COVID-19.
Remain isolated until you are certain you are well, and do not attempt to come onto campus. Advise your Program Chair and discuss any accommodations you may require.
Student Mental Health Supports
Feeling uncomfortable about the move to a mask-optional environment? Our Centre for Accessible Learning and Counselling Services (CALCS) provides a full range of services for student wellness and accessibility Monday to Friday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. Students can book an appointment online using the link below (preferred), or by phone or email.
CALCS Online Booking
416-289-5000, ext. 3850
calcs@centennialcollege.ca
External after-hours health and wellness supports (available 24/7)
Good2Talk
1-866-925-5454
Telehealth Ontario
1-866-797-0000
International Student Helpline
1-844-451-9700
Domestic Student Helpline
1-888-377-0002
Like every other step we have taken, we have taken it slowly and cautiously, with your health and wellbeing firmly in mind. We will continue to maintain enhanced ventilation systems and cleaning procedures, and follow directives from government and public health officials while consulting with our Ontario provincial college partners. Given the past two years, please be reassured that we have robust plans and processes in place to implement immediately if we are ever required to adapt and pivot.
Thank you for your on-going understanding, support and flexibility as we move into a post-COVID world.