MICHIGAN (WKZO AM/FM) — All Michigan schools are expected to return back to the classrooms this fall, but school will still look a little different.
On Wednesday, June 17, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced that Michigan schools may be able to resume in-person learning in phase four of the “MI Safe Start” plan, with strict safety protocols in place.
More details on what those safety measures could be will be made known on June 30 when the governor releases a new document called “Michigan’s Return to School Roadmap.”
The Roadmap will set the minimum health and safety requirements but districts could be more strict if they so choose. These minimum requirements will apply to all schools, including traditional public, charter, private, and parochial schools.
During her press briefing Whitmer did hint at requirement possibilities like more open air environments during in-person instruction when possible and bringing down class sizes, but it could all vary based on each school district.
According to her press release, this new plan for schools will align closely with the MI Safe Start Plan. “The governor will consider the six phases of the MI Safe Start Plan and the Michigan Economic Recover Council’s 8 regions of the state to determine when, where, and how face-to-face instruction can resume.”
Whitmer adds that regions or school districts could take a step backwards if there is a known spike in coronavirus cases.
In a written statement Governor Whitmer said, “Our students and educators have made incredible sacrifices these past few months to protect themselves and their families from the spread of COVID-19. Thanks to our aggressive action against this virus, those who have done their part to flatten the curve, and the heroes on the front lines, I am optimistic that we will return to in-person learning in the fall. Schools must make sure to enact strict safety measures to continue protecting educators, students, and their families. I will continue working closely with the Return to Learn Advisory Council and leaders in health care to ensure we get this right, but we also need more flexibility and support from the federal government. This crisis has had serious implications on our budget, and we need federal support if we’re going to get this right for our kids.”
The governor adds that for now it’s still crucial to continue social distancing and wearing a mask at all times, including while at restaurants up until you have your meal. “What we want to avoid is people dropping their guard,” Whitmer said.
During her press briefing Governor Whitmer explained that Michigan will remain in a state of emergency past June 19 and possibly into July. She reiterated that this is different than the stay at home order.
Whitmer is also still optimistic that the rest of the state will move into phase five of the “MI Safe Start” plan by the 4th of July.
