​Schools across the St. James-Assiniboia School Division will remain open next Monday, September 19, 2022, and will honour Her Late Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II by observing a moment of silence.

This observance coincides with the State Funeral of the former Sovereign in London, United Kingdom, as well as the ending of the official period of mourning in Canada.

“Citizenship is a key learning objective for our students," says Acting Superintendent Jenness Moffatt. "Our educators will use this opportunity to engage in developmentally appropriate conversations with our students about the significance of this event and other complex topics."

On September 13, the federal government declared September 19, 2022 a National Day of Mourning in Canada. The province of Manitoba recognized the day shortly thereafter.

The federal government announced a one-time federal holiday for core federal public services to mark the day. In Manitoba, all non-essential provincial government services are closed on Monday. Schools, child-care facilities, and the health-care system will continue to operate as usual.

Photo caption: Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II visits Sussex, New Brunswick, 2002. Source: Government of Canada.