KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Following Governor Whitmer’s ordered shutdown of public schools across the state, paychecks are still scheduled for teachers in Kalamazoo.
“This is a necessary step to protect our kids, our families, and our overall public health,” Whitmer said. “I am working with partners across state government to ensure educators, parents, and students have the support they need during this time, and to ensure our children who rely on school for meals have access to food. I know this will be a tough time, but we’re doing this to keep the most people we can safe. I urge everyone to make smart choices during this time and to do everything they can to protect themselves and their families.”
As per the shutdown order, Kalamazoo Public Schools (KPS) are currently suspended for three weeks to help slow the spread of the coronavirus, or COVID-19. They are currently expected to reopen in early April.
Officials with KPS say that there are no interruptions in pay.
“KPS is instituting a number of programs and procedures to maintain critical district functions and services to ensure the safety and well-being of our students, their families, and our staff,” officials said in a statement. “Kalamazoo Public Schools will pay hourly, 10-month employees during this period. Twelve-month employees will continue to work during the closure.”
Meanwhile, Kalamazoo Schools have issued free meals for students during the shutdown, which Interim Superintendent Gary Start says is crucial for some children.
“You just have to show up to the location, tell us how many students you have, and we provide the meals,” Start said. “A lot of our kids count on us for meals, so immediately after the Governor announced that we would be closed for three weeks, we put a plan together.”
A full list of free lunch pick-up times can be viewed below:
Pickup days are Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
- 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at all Kalamazoo Public Schools school buildings except Greenwood, Indian Prairie and Winchell elementary schools, the Alternative Learning Program/ALP, and South Westnedge School.
- 11:30 a.m. – Noon – Interfaith, 1037 Interfaith Blvd.
- 11:30 a.m. – Noon – Eastside Neighborhood Association, 1301 E. Main St.
- 12:30 – 1 p.m. – Fox Ridge Apartments, 1320 Fox Ridge Dr.
- 12:30 – 1 p.m. – New Village Park, 2500 St. Albans Way
Schools are currently scheduled to reopen on Monday, April 6.
Citizens can use this map to find other local school meal drop-off plans.
