There is some interest in Atikokan to have before and after-school programs at St. Patrick’s School.

The Northwest Catholic District School Board says at least 17 families have indicated an interest.

Superintendent of Education Kim Anderson says no registration is taking place yet.

The board is still working through what Anderson describes as a lengthy licensing process.

“We also have to involve the municipal zoning department of Atikokan. We must have building inspections, and if any rentals are required, we’d have to get building permits,” says Anderson.

She adds inspections by the Northwestern Health Unit of the kitchen space and water will be required.

A kindergarten classroom has been identified as the room for the programs as it is closest to meeting the necessary requirements.

“Some of the bigger ticket items are creating new policies and procedures. We’re fortunate that we can use some of the ones we already have. But (we will) have to create some sanitary practices, managing wait lists. We’ll have to have playground safety procedures, serious incidents, death of a child at the childcare center.”

There are also hiring guidelines they will have to follow.