After the horse-and-carriage incident at Fort William Historical Park Monday that tragically claimed the life of four-year-old Willow Scott-Hannam, Lakehead Public Schools is reviewing their policies and procedures concerning field trips.
"We’re collecting information about field trips we have planned and certainly ensuring we have addressed all safety issues," said education director Catherine Siemieniuk.
She added the board does have detailed practices within their field trip practices and they are making sure those practices are being adhered to.
"We’re very confident about that, but it’s incumbent upon us to make sure that’s happening," she said.
Lakehead Public Schools is conducting an internal investigation on Monday’s incident and Siemieniuk said their main focus right now is on the young girl’s family and also the Hyde Park School community.
"It’s a horrific incident," she said. "Our hearts go out to this family … the whole situation is devastating. It’s devastating for this family most importantly. It’s devastating for our school community. I think it’s devastating for our community."
Some principals are receiving calls from concerned parents about upcoming field trips and ensuring parents that all safety issues have been examined.
No field trips have been cancelled by the board.
