COVID TIMES

UPDATED 15 Sep 2022

 

Hello everyone,

 

We are back to IN-PERSON training with Cadets. Please read the following information carefully to prepare for the new procedures around attending Cadet training.

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IF YOU HAVE BEEN SICK, DO NOT FEEL WELL, HAVE A COLD/FLU ETC OR BEEN IN ANY CONTACT OR HOUSEHOLD WITH A SUSPECTED COVID-19 CASE, PLEASE DO NOT COME TO CADETS UNTIL YOU HAVE THE ALL CLEAR.

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OFFICER AND CADET SAFETY IS OUR HIGHEST PRIORITY DURING THIS COVID PANDEMIC.

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COVID AIDE MEMOIRE - REQUIRED READING FOR ALL
Covid-19 Aide Memoire document

 

Training Nights

We have returned to IN-PERSON training.

If in-person is restricted, virtual classes are automatically resumed.

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Virtual Training

We are now setup and using Microsoft Teams for Virtual Training Sessions.

We need each Cadet to have their own GMAIL or HOTMAIL account so they can be setup and invited to their applicable Star Training Group. I recommend www.gmail.com only because I personally use it and it works well. 

If you already have a Cadet personal email address please send the info to 2812rcacc@gmail.com in the following format:

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Cadet Name: Donal Duckey

Cadet EMail: donalduckey@gmail.com (not a real address I hope)

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Virtual Training requires a private invitation to join and this needs to be completed ahead of time.

Get yourself setup as soon as possible and test that it is working.

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To download Teams:

https://www.microsoft.com/en-ca/microsoft-365/microsoft-teams/download-app

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VIRTUAL TRAINING

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Virtual Enrolment

The process has been to invite all Cadets to send their personal email address back to the Operations Officer.
We add the Cadet details to our admin spreadsheet.
We add the Cadet First, Last name and email to the 2812 RCACC contact list in GMAIL.
We add the Cadet to Teams by linking back to our 2812 contacts in GMAIL.
We add the Cadet to the appropriate Star Training Group.
They are automatically also added to 2812 Everyone Group.

Senior Instructing Cadets are added to the applicable Star Training Group.
This is a manual process that takes some time to complete.

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Typical VIRTUAL Evening Program

We are currently holding typical virtual online session as follows;

At 1800 the Senior officer will start the virtual session and a few announcements will occur.

Cadets join the virtual session on teams (all Cadets should be mic muted)

Senior Officer will ask for any announcements from other Officers and then the virtual opening session will be ended.

Cadets will open the General section in Teams below their Current Star Level and join their Star Training Officer for further virtual lessons.

Lessons are presented by the Star Training Senior Cadets and supervised (and assisted) by the Star Training Officer.

Start time will be 6 PM and end time will be 8 PM.

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18:15-18:25 VIRTUAL LOG-IN/ANNOUNCEMENTS/ROLL CALL

18:30-19:00 1ST PERIOD

19:05-19:15 BREAK

19:20-19:50 2ND PERIOD

19:55-20:00 DISMISSAL

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Virtual Dress

We will announce when we expect Officers and Cadets to start using their uniforms for virtual sessions.

I would suggest you find all your uniform parts and have them ready.

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IN-PERSON TRAINING

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Officer Safety Training

The Officers are all required to have taken the new Covid Safety training before they can attend and supervise the Cadet programs. This requires them to complete a course, write a test to check they understood everything presented and a certificate is then issued. This certificate must be sent to the Commanding Officer as proof that the course is properly completed.

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Covid Officer

A special Covid Officer will be assigned to each training evening.

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Supervising Officers
There will be different Supervising Officers assigned to different evenings.

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Officer Dress

All Officers will be dressed in Combat uniforms and masks for the duration of the training events.

 

Event Limits

We are limited on-site at each event.

Different Cadets and Officers will be brought in on different evenings to manage our numbers.

Details of who is attending on which evening will be made available.

 

Our rules will be strictly followed or you will simply be asked to leave.

DO NOT come to Cadets with any sick symptoms like sore throat, temperature, coughing, flu, feverish, sweating etc.

DO NOT come to Cadets if you have been in contact with anyone who is under a 14 day quarantine.

DO NOT come to Cadets if you have recently returned from abroad (including USA) and should be in 14 day quarantine.

DO NOT come to Cadets if a school classmate or family member is suspected of having Covid symptoms.

DO NOT come to Cadets if you object or cannot wear a mask (for any reason).

 

Face Masks

We recommend at minimum buying five, 3 layered face masks that can be laundered daily.

Yes you can bring a personal mask. Preferably a clean one not used for school that day.

They need to be socially acceptable if they have imprints or patterns on them.

Everyone, including parents, are to have and use masks appropriately (as required).

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Cadet Dress

Cadets will wear FTU's and masks and new cadets will wear civilian dress and masks until uniforms are issued.

It is customary for new Cadets to wear black or dark pants and a white shirt with a warm jacket (if necessary).

Sneakers are recommended.

 

Typical IN-PERSON Evening Program

We are expecting a typical evening inside the hall to be as follows;

Cadets arrive and wait outside (properly socially distanced or in their cars).

We will have two lessons with a break in between them.

Weather permitting Cadets will be allowed outside on the grassed area (socially distanced).

Inside breaks (if raining), Cadets will remain in their seats. (Cadets should bring something to drink and eat).

Start time will be 6 PM and end time will be 8 PM.

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18:00-18:35 ARRIVAL/SIGN IN

18:40-19:10 1ST PERIOD

19:15-19:20 BREAK

19:25-19:55 2ND PERIOD

20:00-20:30 CLEANUP/DISMISSAL

 

Covid Start Up Process

A limited number of Cadets in two lines will line up to use hand sanitizer.

Cadets then sign in for tracing logs using their own pen (bring your own pen and notebook).

Cadets will queue to get a chair from the storage room and clean it thoroughly using sanitizing cloths.

The assigned chair will be moved to and placed in the class room area.

Chairs are placed 6-8 feet apart with a path between every second row for exiting to the bathroom etc.

Only two Cadets to the separate bathrooms (one female, one male) at a time. 

Cadets will use hand sanitizer every time before returning to their seats.

 

Covid Close Up Process

The assigned chair will be wiped down and returned to storage in an orderly fashion.

Cadets use hand sanitizer and leave via the back doors to be collected by parents.

 

Uniform Maintenance

Uniform parts are to be washed each week immediately after Cadets return home, then stored until required.

 

Stores

We will have one officer in stores (if possible).

Cadets will enter one at a time to be supplied with equipment like uniform parts etc.

 

= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =

C A P A C I T Y = Max 85 (Subject to Covid limitations of the day)

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1x OIC

1x Safety Officer

2x Star Level Officers

1x Stores Officer (optional)

4x Cadet Instructors

20x Cadets

20x Cadets

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Class Areas

CLASS 1

SEATS 20 Cadets

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[WALL] <-2.0m->

[WALL] CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR <-2.0m-> CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR <-2m->

[WALL] <-2.0m->

[WALL] <------4.0m------> DESK <-2.0m-> BOARD

[WALL] <------4.0m------> INSTR1 <-2.0m-> INSTR2 <-2.0m-> OFFICER

 

CLASS 2

SEATS 20 Cadets

[WALL] <-2.0m->

[WALL] CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR <-2.0m-> CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR <-2m->

[WALL] <-2.0m->

[WALL] CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR <-2.0m-> CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR <-2m->

[WALL] <-2.0m->

[WALL] CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR <-2.0m-> CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR <-2m->

[WALL] <-2.0m->

[WALL] CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR <-2.0m-> CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR <-2m->

[WALL] <-2.0m->

[WALL] CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR <-2.0m-> CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR <-2m->

[WALL] <-2.0m->

[WALL] <------4.0m------> DESK <-2.0m-> BOARD

[WALL] <------4.0m------> INSTR1 <-2.0m-> INSTR2 <-2.0m-> OFFICER

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CLASS 3

SEATS 20 Cadets

                                                   <-2.0m-> [WALL]

<-2.0m-> CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR <-2.0m-> CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR [WALL]

                                                   <-2.0m-> [WALL]

<-2.0m-> CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR <-2.0m-> CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR [WALL]

                                                   <-2.0m-> [WALL]

<-2.0m-> CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR <-2.0m-> CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR [WALL]

                                                   <-2.0m-> [WALL]

<-2.0m-> CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR <-2.0m-> CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR [WALL]

                                                   <-2.0m-> [WALL]

<-2.0m-> CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR <-2.0m-> CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR [WALL]

                                                   <-2.0m-> [WALL]

                     BOARD <-2.0m-> DESK <------4.0m------> [WALL]

 OFFICER <-2.0m-> INSTR2 <-2.0m-> INSTR1 <------4.0m------> [WALL]

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CLASS 4

SEATS 20 Cadets

                                                   <-2.0m-> [WALL]

<-2.0m-> CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR <-2.0m-> CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR [WALL]

                                                   <-2.0m-> [WALL]

<-2.0m-> CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR <-2.0m-> CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR [WALL]

                                                   <-2.0m-> [WALL]

<-2.0m-> CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR <-2.0m-> CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR [WALL]

                                                   <-2.0m-> [WALL]

<-2.0m-> CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR <-2.0m-> CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR [WALL]

                                                   <-2.0m-> [WALL]

<-2.0m-> CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR <-2.0m-> CHAIR <-2.5m-> CHAIR [WALL]

                                                   <-2.0m-> [WALL]

                     BOARD <-2.0m-> DESK <------4.0m------> [WALL]

 OFFICER <-2.0m-> INSTR2 <-2.0m-> INSTR1 <------4.0m------> [WALL]

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= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =

 

We are carefully managing the cadet training nights but this will only be successful if everyone follows the rules.

 

We look forward to seeing everyone again and hope you are all well and looking forward to the new reality of the Cadet year.

 

Thank you and stay safe,

​

Maj James Lapshinoff

Commanding Officer

2812 RCACC

 

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Questions and Answers

Q. Despite everything that we have heard, we are still not comfortable allowing our cadets to participate in in-person activities. Will they be penalized or held back?

A. No. The Cadet Program is completely voluntary, no one should do anything if they or their parents/guardians are not comfortable with participation. Cadets will not be penalized or disadvantaged for not completing aspects of the program due to in-person activity limitations.

Q. My entire corps/squadron have non-medical masks (procured, donated etc.). Are we able to start up activities on the 1st of September?

A. No. In order to ensure the safety of all who participate in our programs, no in-person activities will be permitted prior to the 1st of October 2020, and only after approval has been granted thru the local Area office, by the RCSU CO. Non-medical masks will be provided by the Canadian Armed Forces and they are only one of the requirements for cadet corps and squadrons to begin in-person activities. Corps and Squadron Commanding Officers should consult their chain of command to ensure the non-medical masks meet the proper requirements prior to starting activities.

Q. Does my Corps/Squadron need to observe physical distancing and maximum room capacity if all participants are wearing non-medical masks?

A. Yes. Precautions such as the wearing of non- medical masks are only one aspect of ensuring the safety of all who participate in the Cadet Program.

Q. Is there a standard that non-medical masks need to follow in order to be worn in uniform?

A. Not at this time. When the time comes for in-person activities, non-medical masks (NMMs) will be provided by the NCJCR Sp Gp to all cadets and staff; however, in the interim, cadets and staff may use personally procured NMMs if they have them. It is important for Cadets and Staff to be able to conduct limited in-person activities in a safe manner.

Q. How will we conduct our attraction campaigns in the fall if in-person activities are not permitted/limited in my area?

A. Public Affairs teams have been hard at work developing templates, guides and checklists to help corps and squadrons be able to conduct attraction, engagement and outreach activities.

Q. There have been no instances of COVID-19 in my community for weeks now. Can we begin in-person activities right now?

A. No. In order to ensure the safety of all who participate in our programs, no in-person activities will be permitted prior to the 1st of October 2020, and only after approval has been granted thru the local Area office, by the RCSU CO.

Q. If in-person activities are allowed to start up, why can’t we begin in-person fundraising while following the same precautions?

A. Limited in-person training activities ensure there are proper records taken in the event of an outbreak, and contact tracing becomes necessary. In-person fundraising activities generally require a higher level of community interaction that would make contact tracing difficult, if not impossible, and increases the risk of the Cadet program becoming a vector of transmission for COVID-19.

 The main criteria for success for any limited in-person cadet training activities will be the effective delivery of a flexible, fun and exciting training program that maintains cadets’ interest and sustains the cadet population.
 No in-person fundraising activities involving cadets and adult staff are authorized until further notice.

Q. Why can activities take place in one part of Canada and not the other?

A. The re-opening of society and resumption of normal activities will be dependent upon the conditions in different regions throughout Canada. In-person cadet activities will be permitted provided the most restrictive guidelines provided by federal, provincial and municipal public health agencies are followed, in addition to the restrictions outlined within Tasking Order 002 to the Campaign Plan.

Q. I live in an area with an active outbreak of COVID-19. Am I obligated to begin in-person activities?

A. No. The Cadet Program is completely voluntary, no one should do anything if they or their parents/guardians are not comfortable with participation. The safety of all who participate in the Cadet program is our top priority. Corps and squadron commanding officers are required to seek approval from their Area OIC to begin limited in-person activities taking into account local public health measures. If changes in the situation occur, they are to seek further guidance from their Chain of Command.

Q. How will we run a program in the fall if in-person activities are still not permitted in my area?
 

A. Training delivery within a COVID environment will continue to rely heavily on information technology as virtual opportunities will be required to augment or replace limited face-to-face activities. Corps and squadron commanding officers are encouraged to consult their chain of command to see what options may be available to support the delivery of training in a virtual environment.

Q. If there are no overnight activities permitted, does this mean that we cannot conduct field training exercises?

A. No. Local day activities without an overnight stay are still permitted, provided ground transportation is carried out in accordance with the travel restrictions set out in Tasking Order 002 to the Campaign Plan. Approval for the activity will reside thru the local area office, by the RCSU CO.

Q. My Corps/Squadron is scheduled to travel outside of Canada for a recreational trip during the 2020-2021 training year. Will it be permitted to proceed?

A. No. Due to the current situation, international travel is still prohibited by the Canadian Government. International travel is prohibited by order of the Commander of the National Cadet and Junior Canadian Rangers Support Group until 1 Sept 2021. It is recommended the cadet corps and squadrons explore cancellation options in light of the pandemic and the possibility that these trips may not be possible. Furthermore, it is recommended that cadet corps and squadrons refrain from planning any international recreational trips until further notice.

Q. My Corps/Squadron is scheduled to travel domestically for a recreational trip. Will that trip be permitted to proceed?

A. The Movement/Travel Guidelines (including approval authorities) that were updated at ref: Movement/Travel Guidelines (V4) dated 12 June 2020 remain in effect. Additional restrictions on cadet and adult staff activities are as follows: There will be no international travel, including to the USA, Inter-provincial/territorial travel is limited to program participants who reside within one hour of a provincial/territorial border and must cross it in order to attend regular parade nights or other approved day only training activities, There will be no commercial air travel, Ground transport must be arranged and carried out in a manner that ensures 2 metre distancing between passengers, with appropriate cleaning protocol. Self-travel for any cadet activities is limited to within 1 hour of the parade location in order to maximize parental drop off / pick up of their child; Exception to the 1 hour limitation will be approved by the RCSU CO, and No overnight travel is authorized until further notice.

Q. Are there any special precautions or protocol to follow when we start up in-person activities?

A. Yes. In addition to the restrictions outlined here, there are a number of protocols to be put in place prior to the startup of limited in-person cadet activities. Cadet corps and squadron commanding officers are required to consult Tasking Order 002 to the Campaign Plan, and its associated annexes, checklists and templates, prior to any in-person activities taking place.

Q. Will there be additional days paid to staff members required to redo the fall training plan to fall within this tasking order?

A. No. In the event that Cadet Corps and Squadrons need to break activities over multiple days, it is expected that only the required number of supervisors for the number of cadets attending will be present to ensure the lowest possible chance of in-person contact.

Q. I have additional questions that are not covered here.

 

A. Since the re-opening of society and resumption of normal activities will be dependent upon the conditions in different regions throughout Canada, it is impossible to cover every situation in this document. Additional direction and guidance is available via Zone Training Officers and Area Offices. A continuously updated Q&A document is available for corps/squadron staff to consult on the Natl CJCR Sp Gp COVID-19 CCO Net Intranet page.