521 News and Updates:

Summer 2021 | Été 2021

ON BEHALF OF CMDRE J. KURTZ, COMD CJCR // ENVOYÉ AU NOM DU CMDRE J. KURTZ, CMDT CRJC
BILINGUAL EMAIL / COURRIEL BILINGUE

The Cadets and Junior Canadian Rangers HQ remains committed to ensuring that Canadian youth have access to challenging and unique experiences focused on leadership, citizenship, healthy living and stimulating interest in sea, land, and air activities of the Canadian Armed Forces.

We recognize that there may be a lot of questions about summer 2021, but the quick answer is we do not know exactly what summer 2021 will look like. We are planning for all scenarios so we can offer the best experiences to our Program participants.

Some of the options we are currently exploring include: Cadet Activity Programs (CAP) during spring break and the summer, virtual courses, hybrid courses (some virtual and in-person components), and in-person CTC courses. All options are subject to change based on the continually evolving situation.

We are planning to offer in-person CTC courses, if the situation allows, but it won’t look the same as we were used to. We will be adjusting to be able to adhere to local PHMs and guidelines. The planning priority will be placed on courses that effect the capability of providing quality localized training programs.

As we continue to explore an array of options to offer experiences without compromising the safety of the cadets and staff, you can anticipate seeing regular updates about the summer 2021 situation and are encouraged to visit https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/services/cadets-junior-canadian-rangers/cadets/summer-training/summer2021.html regularly for updates.

END OF ENGLISH TEXT / DÉBUT DU TEXTE EN FRANÇAIS

Le QG des Cadets et Rangers juniors canadiens s’engage à faire en sorte que les jeunes canadiens aient accès à des expériences stimulantes et uniques axées sur le leadership, la citoyenneté, un mode de vie sain et stimuler l’intérêt envers les activités terrestres, navales et aériennes des Forces armées canadiennes.

Nous reconnaissons qu’il peut y avoir beaucoup de questions au sujet de l’été 2021, mais la réponse rapide est que nous ne savons pas exactement à quoi ressemblera l’été 2021. Nous planifions cependant tous les scénarios afin de pouvoir offrir les meilleures expériences possibles aux participants de notre programme.

Parmi les options que nous explorons actuellement, mentionnons le Programmes d’activités des cadets (PAC) pendant la semaine de relâche et pendant l’été, les cours virtuels, les cours hybrides (certains volets virtuels et en présentiel) et les cours en présentiel au CEC. Toutes les options sont sujettes à changement en fonction de l’évolution constante de la situation.

Nous prévoyons offrir des cours en présentiel au CEC si la situation le permet, mais ils ne seront plus les mêmes que ceux auxquels nous étions habitués. Nous nous adapterons pour pouvoir respecter les directives et les MSP locaux. La priorité de planification sera accordée aux cours qui ont une incidence sur la capacité d’offrir des programmes de formation de qualité au niveau local.

5. Alors que nous continuons à explorer un éventail d’options pour offrir des expériences sans compromettre la sécurité des cadets et du personnel, vous pouvez vous attendre à voir des mises à jour régulières sur la situation de l’été 2021 et nous vous encourageons à consulter https://www.canada.ca/fr/ministere-defense-nationale/services/cadets-rangers-juniors-canadiens/cadets/activites-ete/lete2021.html régulièrement pour obtenir des mises à jour.

October 20, 2020 at 12:11 pm

2019/2020 Training Year Awards Ceremony – Thursday, October 22nd, 2020

The 2019/2020 Training Year Awards Ceremony will be held on Thursday, October 22nd, 2020 at 1830hrs (to 2000hrs).

The ceremony will be a hybrid of in-person and virtual participation. Cadets invited to the in-person ceremony have been notified by their Level Commanders. Cadets not on the in-person list will not be admitted into the building, this is to ensure we follow all Provincial safety measures.

The information to attend the Zoom presentation which is a live stream of the in-person ceremony will be made available on the closed Facebook pages (both the parent and cadet pages).

Although we wish we could have all cadets attend in person we hope you understand why we have to limit things at this time. Cadets invited to the in-person ceremony were based on a first come sign up that was filtered to them via email.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns.

Be safe out there!
Capt Alicia Kathrens
Deputy Commanding & Training Officer 521 RCACS
Canadian Armed Forces
alicia.kathrens@cadets.gc.ca

October 18, 2020 at 9:13 am

2020/2021 Training Year Plan – Update #2

Dear Cadet Families,

Our original plan was denied by the Regional Cadet Support Unit. We have amended it to accommodate their concerns and we have now been approved to start in-person training on Thursday, October 22nd, 2020.

As previously mentioned, our parade nights will look different this year to abide by the Provincial Health Measures (PHM) and the measures laid out by the National Cadet and Junior Canadian Rangers Support Group (NCJCR-SG) in Tasking 002. In order to not over burden staff and senior cadets we have developed a plan to have our regular training nights take place on Thursday’s as before, but in order to accommodate the maximum allowance of 50 people gathering set by PHM we alternating cadet cohorts, Levels 1 & 2 will meet one week starting October 29th, 2020 and Level’s 3 & 4 will meet the next week starting November 5th. Level 5’s will be split between the cohorts into training groups.

We are still working on obtaining approval for our optional training, Effective Speaking, Ground School and Range.

Cadets are asked to adhere the following every time they attend a cadet activity:

1) Always wear a Non-Medical Mask (NMM):

a) The Squadron Sponsoring Committee has purchased 521 NMM for each cadet. They will be handed out on the first night back and cadets will get 1 free mask. If they lose that mask, they can purchase a new one for $15.

b) Alternatively, cadets may bring their own personal mask. We are not concerned with mask color, so long as the mask is tasteful

c) If cadets do not have a mask, they will be sent home.

2) All attendees entering the Cadet Building or participating in an outdoor activity will be required to sign in on the COVID-19 Attendance Register. Signing the attendance register indicates that the individual has NO symptoms as outlined on the COVID-19 Screening Questionnaire. If there are any concerns (i.e. they respond yes to any of the questions) the individual(s) shall be sent home immediately and told to follow up with their family doctor.

COVID 19 Screening Questions
COVID 19 Attendance Register

3) Use hand sanitizer upon entering the facility and each classroom.

a) Hand sanitizer will be provided and frequent use of this and hand washing is strongly encouraged.

4) Bring their own pen/pencil and notebook.

a) Cadets are required to bring their own pen/pencil and notebook as we will not have common items to eliminate shared items.

5) Filled water bottle

a) We are unable to run canteen at this time but recognize the importance of hydration. Please mark your cadets water bottle with their name and send it with them.

Please keep in mind that this is all very fluid, and your patience will be needed as we all work through the changes.

The new routine:

· Prior to departing home for any in-person activities, all adult personnel and cadets will complete the BC COVID-19 Self-Assessment Tool located at www.thrive.health/health-canada-self-assessment-tool and follow the recommend guidance from Public Health Agency of Canada. Furthermore, anyone with symptoms of the regular influenza are not to report to any in-person activities and should advise through their Chain of Command.

· Drop off will be at the main front doors of St. Mary’s Centre. We ask that parents remain in the parking lot at drop off time until your cadet has signed in, responded to the COVID 19 Screening Questions, and entered the building.

· All personnel will await entrance to the building by lining up under the covered area. At the front of the line, cadets will be met by the Duty COVID-19 Safety Officer.

· All personnel will sanitize their hands prior to completing the sign in process.

· All personnel will answer the COVID-19 Screening Questionnaire. If a positive response to any of the questions is received, the participant will be sent home immediately.

· All personnel will sign in using their own pen the COVID-19 Attendance Register.

· Level 1 and 3 cadets will continue directly to the chapel, level 2 & 4 cadets to the gym, level 5 cadets to their assigned classrooms.

· Training will be delivered with two periods of instruction with a short break between classes. Cadets will be required to remain in their classrooms during break except for washroom use.

· Upon conclusion of classes, cadets will return to the parade square for closing parade and announcements.

· For final parade cadets will form up as per their assigned level on the parade square. Cadets will fall-in at the open order at double arms dressing, level Commander will fall in 6 feet in front of the front rank.

· Pick up will be at the back doors by the gym (Little Willows entrance).

· The COVID-19 Safety Officer and staff will complete sanitization of all equipment, high touch areas, and the general facility immediately following dismissal.

Thank you,
Capt. Thomas Benton
Commanding Officer 521 RCACS
Canadian Armed Forces
Thomas.Benton@cadets.gc.ca

and

Capt Alicia Kathrens
Deputy Commanding & Training Officer 521 RCACS
Canadian Armed Forces
alicia.kathrens@cadets.gc.ca
Ph: 778-558-8561

October 6, 2020 at 10:24 am

2020/2021 Training Year Plan – Update #1

DEAR CADET FAMILIES,

Our original plan was denied by the Regional Cadet Support Unit (RCSU). The training department is working diligently to amended the plan and accommodate all RCSU’s concerns. We are hoping to hear back in the next week if our new plan is accepted.
Stay tuned!

-Capt Kathrens

September 30, 2020 at 9:14 am

2020/2021 Training Year Plan

521 Aurora Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron (RCACS) has applied for in-person training to commence Thursday, October 8th, 2020. Our application is NOT guaranteed and is being reviewed prior to approval to ensure that we are able to provide a safe environment for our cadets.

Parade nights will look slightly different this year to abide by the Provincial Health Measures (PHM) and the measures laid out by the National Cadet and Junior Canadian Rangers Support Group (NCJCR-SG) in Tasking 002. In order to not over burden staff and senior cadets we have developed a plan to have our regular training nights take place on Thursday’s as before, but in order to accommodate the maximum allowance of 50 people gather set by PHM we are dividing the night into 2 sessions and will have cleaning of the facilities between sessions. The groups will attend as follows:

Session 1 total = 49
Session 2 total = 40
**** This will be reviewed when the PHM allow for an increase of participants*****

Cadets are asked to adhere the following every time they attend a cadet activity:
1) Always wear a Non-Medical Mask (NMM):
a) The Squadron Sponsoring Committee has purchased 521 NMM for each cadet. They will be handed out on the first night back and cadets will get 1 free mask. If they lose that mask, they can purchase a new one for $15.
b) Alternatively, cadets may bring their own personal mask. We are not concerned with mask color, so long as the mask is tasteful
c) If cadets do not have a mask, they will be sent home.

3) Use hand sanitizer upon entering the facility and each classroom.
a) Hand sanitizer will be provided and frequent use of this and hand washing is strongly encouraged.

4) Bring their own pen/pencil and notebook.
a) Cadets are required to bring their own pen/pencil and notebook as we will not have common items to eliminate shared items.

5) Filled water bottle
a) We are unable to run canteen at this time but recognize the importance of hydration. Please mark your cadets water bottle with their name and send it with them.

Please keep in mind that this is all very fluid, and your patience will be needed as we all work through the changes.

The new routine:
• Prior to departing home for any in-person activities, all adult personnel and cadets will complete the BC COVID-19 Self-Assessment Tool located at www.thrive.health/health-canada-self-assessment-tool and follow the recommend guidance from Public Health Agency of Canada. Furthermore, anyone with symptoms of the regular influenza are not to report to any in-person activities and should advise through their Chain of Command.
• Drop off will be at the main front doors of St. Mary’s Centre. We ask that parents remain in the parking lot at drop off time until your cadet has signed in, responded to the COVID 19 Screening Questions, and entered the building.
• All personnel will await entrance to the building by lining up under the covered area. At the front of the line, cadets will be met by the Duty COVID-19 Safety Officer.
• All personnel will sanitize their hands prior to completing the sign in process.
• All personnel will answer the COVID-19 Screening Questionnaire. If a positive response to any of the questions is received, the participant will be sent home immediately.
• All personnel will sign in using their own pen the COVID-19 Attendance Register.
• Level 1 and 3 cadets will continue directly to the chapel, level 2 &4 cadets to the gym, level 5 cadets to their assigned classrooms.
• Training will be delivered with two periods of instruction with a short break between classes. Cadets will be required to remain in their classrooms during break except for washroom use.
• Upon conclusion of classes, cadets will return to the parade square for closing parade and announcements.
• For final parade cadets will form up as per their assigned level on the parade square. Cadets will fall-in at the open order at double arms dressing, level Commander will fall in 6 feet in front of the front rank.
• Pick up will be at the back doors by the gym (Little Willows entrance). This is to avoid contact with Session 2 and contamination of sanitized areas.
• The COVID-19 Safety Officer and staff will complete sanitization of all equipment, high touch areas, and the general facility immediately following dismissal.

Thank you,
Capt. Thomas Benton
Commanding Officer 521 “Aurora” RCACS
Canadian Armed Forces
E-mail Address:
Thomas.Benton@cadets.gc.ca

and

Capt. Alicia Kathrens
Deputy Commanding & Training Officer 521 “Aurora” RCACS
Canadian Armed Forces
alicia.kathrens@cadets.gc.ca
Ph: 778-558-8561

September 25, 2020 at 11:54 am

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