KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Monday, Kalamazoo Public Schools (KPS) unveiled their plan to reopen schools this fall with protective measures in place.
The plan is being billed as the “Smart and Safe Start” plan and contains multiple options for students.
The options include a three-tiered plan that begins online only, moves to hybrid classes after Thanksgiving, and returns to in-person class for the last portion of the school year, provided state guidelines allow depending on the state of the pandemic.
The other option would be to enroll in an online-only model, with a choice between the KPS Kalamazoo Virtual Learning Path or the KRESA Virtual & Innovative Collaborative.
“We asked for input as we were developing plan options,” KPS Superintendent Dr. Rita Raichoudhuri said in a statement. “We listened to all stakeholders including students, parents, teachers, administrators, staff members, and community partners. We listened during scheduled public input sessions, board meetings, and meetings with KPS employees. We listened to health experts. Weread a lot of emails, research, and guidance documents. We also looked at what worked well in the spring and what did not work as well. Our plan was developed carefully considering all of the above.”
Raichoudhuri will host a series of seven virtual town halls to provide detailed information and take questions regarding the district’s Smart and Safe Start school plan.
The Zoom meetings require registration and are open to all KPS stakeholders who are interested in learning more and have questions about the various options available for the school year. After registering, a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting will be sent.
Other KPS administrators and staff will join the meetings to help answer questions as needed.
A list of dates and links for the virtual meetings can be viewed below:
- Tuesday, Aug. 4, 3 – 4:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, Aug. 5, 4 – 5:30 p.m.
- Thursday, Aug. 6, 8:30 – 10 a.m.
- Thursday, Aug. 6, 2:30 – 4 p.m.
- Saturday, Aug. 8, 3:30 – 5 p.m.
- Monday, Aug. 10, 7 – 8:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, Aug. 12, 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Further information about the plan and its different tiers can be viewed at the Kalamazoo Public Schools website.
