The "Return to Learn" plan allows districts to choose if and how students return to school in the fall. | stock photo
The "Return to Learn" plan allows districts to choose if and how students return to school in the fall. | stock photo
Rep. Rodney Wakeman (R-Saginaw Township) and the Michigan House approved a bipartisan bill that allows school districts across the state to choose which method of instruction is best for their students in consultation with their local health department.
“Simply put, our kids need to return to the classroom, be it in-person instruction or through virtual learning,” Wakeman said, according to Michigan House Republicans. “I’ve been in regular communication with Saginaw County school leaders about the upcoming school year, and one thing remains clear: We must provide our schools with the flexibility they need to empower students and parents while balancing public safety. We all know COVID-19 continues to have a disproportional impact on various regions of Michigan. A one-size-fits-all approach isn’t going to benefit every school district. That’s why we are allowing schools to partner with area health departments to develop standards that maximize student learning and ensure students and faculty are safe.”
Under this plan, parents have the opportunity to voice their concerns at monthly school board meetings, where methods of instruction will be discussed. There will also be regular benchmark assessments to inform teachers and parents of where students are struggling or falling behind. If in-person classes are deemed safe, districts are encouraged to prioritize in-person instruction for K-5 students.
Rep. Rodney Wakeman
| Michigan House Republicans
More than $580 million in federal coronavirus relief funding has been awarded to Michigan schools, according to Michigan House Republicans.
The bill since been approved by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
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