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VanWoerkom backs back-to-school plan maximizing student learning, prioritizing safety
RELEASE|August 17, 2020

Legislature, governor reach bipartisan agreement

State Rep. Greg VanWoerkom today joined his legislative colleagues in approving a bipartisan agreement to help K-12 students safely return to school this fall.

VanWoerkom, of Norton Shores, said the plan will allow school districts to determine the best course of action for their students, be it online, in person, or hybrid instruction, based on consultations with local health departments. 

“As parents, teachers, school leaders and a community, we owe it to our children that they remain healthy and safe while they progress academically through this public health crisis,” VanWoerkom said. “Rather than a one-size-fits-all mandate, the Legislature worked with the governor to reach a consensus on plan that provides every school district with the flexibility it needs to ensure classroom instruction resumes in the fall – be it online or in person. The bipartisan plan calls for school districts to work with area health departments to develop plans that will maximize student learning in manner that is safe for students and faculty.”

VanWoerkom also said providing parents with the opportunity to voice their concerns is crucial to keep the school district and community informed of needed adaptations and hold locally elected officials accountable. Under the legislation, school boards will be required to reexamine and recertify how they are delivering instruction to students at their monthly board meetings for the duration of the 2020-21 school year. 

Additionally, local benchmark assessments will provide detailed information to parents and teachers about where a student needs additional help to ensure they stay on track. Under the plan, if districts determine that it is safe to offer in-person learning, they are encouraged, but not required, to prioritize in-person instruction to K-5 students.

As the coming school year will also pose significant additional costs to school districts as they work to impose new safety standards and innovative teaching methods, the Legislature previously dedicated a total of $583 million in federal Coronavirus Relief Funds to Michigan schools, including:

  • $350 per student across the board, ensuring schools have the resources they need to educate children.
  • More than $50 million in hazard pay for educators who have been flexible and innovative in the face of unprecedented change. 
  • $18 million for safety measures and local benchmark assessments to ensure kids stay on track with learning. 

The plan now advances to the governor’s desk for consideration.

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