LANSING, Mich. (WXYZ) — The state of Michigan has unveiled plans for students to return to school in the fall.
Called the "MI Safe Schools Roadmap," it directs school districts to come up with distinct plans.
The more than 60-page document outlines safety protocols for schools to implement in each phase of the "MI Safe Start Plan."
“Our students, parents, and educators have made incredible sacrifices during our battle with COVID-19," Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said.
“Thanks to our aggressive action against this virus, the teachers who have found creative ways to reach their students, and the heroes on the front lines, I am optimistic that we will return to in-person learning in the fall. The MI SafeSchools Return to School Roadmap will help provide schools with the guidance they need as they 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 experts in epidemiology and public health to ensure we get this right, but we also need more flexibility and financial 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 most important thing we can do as we prepare to reopen school buildings in the fall is closely examine the data and remain vigilant in our steps to fight this virus,” said MDHHS Chief Deputy for Health and Chief Medical Executive Dr. Joneigh Khaldun.
“I will continue to work closely with Governor Whitmer and the Return to Learn Advisory Council to ensure we continue to put the health and safety of our students and educators first. We will remain nimble to protect students, educators, and their families.”
Districts will have to come up with a COVID-19 preparedness and response plan.
The roadmap offers guidelines for safety protocols, including using PPE, good hygiene, cleaning and disinfecting, spacing in classrooms, symptom screening, athletics and more.
It comes weeks after the announcement of the Return to Learn Advisory Council that worked to bring together school leaders and other state leaders together to come up with the plan.
Read the entire plan below