Waterloo region's public schools to remain closed for community use

The Waterloo Region District School Board won't be reopening schools for rentals andcommunity usethis year.

The school board published a statement on Mondaysaying those functions won't be allowed in schools until at least January 31, 2021.

The consideration is the final step of a five-phase approach to evaluating the feasibility of reopening schools for public use.

"As of today, we are evaluating Phase 5 as the board continues to focus on supporting our daytime school operations and responding to the adjustment in learning models and enrolment changes," read thestatement.

Other steps included supporting child care centres and reopening board-owned outdoor facilities.

The board said it continues to monitor the COVID-19 situation.