November 17, 2021
Most kaiako vaxxed and ready for kura reopening
After three months in lockdown, in-class learning in Auckland primary schools starts again today.
There may be some gaps at the front of the room where a kaiako has opted to refuse vaccination, but Hohepa Campbell from Te Rūnanganui o Ngā Kura Kaupapa Māori o Aotearoa says the vast majority of affiliated teachers and support staff have had at least their first dose.
The most recent figure for Auckland was 94 per cent of kaiako were vaccinated, and there are similar rates around the country and strong support from whānau for the vaccination mandate.
“Our kaupapa, Te Aho Matua, is the most important thing we need to consider, and that means protecting our whānau and our tamariki, especially the vulnerable whānau in our communities,” Mr Campbell said.
Some kura have had to farewell teachers, but they will always be part of the whānau and he hopes there will be a way back for them.
Measures to prevent COVID-19 from spreading among students who are too young to be vaccinated include mandatory masking for Years 4 and up, ventilation of classrooms and social distancing.