Whitmer Wants Michigan K-12 Schools Open By March 1

MICHIGAN — Michigan health officials and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on Friday announced a goal to have all school districts offering in-person learning in addition to virtual learning options for students by March — and potentially earlier.

In a news conference Friday afternoon, Whitmer said the decision is based on science, explaining that over the last nine months medical experts and epidemiologists have closely followed data she said suggests schools can establish a low risk of COVID-19 transmission by ensuring everyone wears masks and takes other preventative measures.

"The value of in-person learning for our kids is immeasurable," Whitmer said. "We must do everything we can to help our kids get a great education they need, and to do so safely."

Don't miss important updates from health and government officials on the impact of the coronavirus in Michigan. Sign up for Patch's daily newsletters and email alerts.

In November, MDHHS paused in-person learning in high schools as part of an order to limit indoor gatherings to address an alarming increase in COVID-19 cases and deaths and in hospital occupancy rates. After case numbers decreased, high schools were permitted to resume in-person classes Dec. 21.

Most Michigan schools remain in a fully virtual state, however. But Whitmer said with Michigan teachers being able to begin receiving COVID-19 vaccines Monday, the state is prepared to open schools to in-person instruction.

The governor also noted the impact students learning from home has had on parents.

"We know that in-person learning provides a key benefit for many parents who rely on their children to be at school so that they can do their work and participate fully in our economy," Whitmer said. "Many students and families have struggled with remote learning and need opportunities and face to face interactions with educators."

Friday's guidance from health officials includes early childhood education, such as the Head Start and Great Start Readiness Program.

Wearing masks is especially important for controlling COVID-19 transmission and masks should be worn inside schools by all staff and students, except during meals and in other limited circumstances, the state said Friday.

Other safety measures include limiting student interactions by forming cohorts of students and social distancing. Dr. Joneigh Khaldun of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said improved ventilation at Michigan schools also would go a long way toward helping prevent the spread of the virus.

Michigan reported 4,015 new cases of the coronavirus and an additional 176 COVID-19 deaths Thursday, according to data released by state health officials. The state eclipsed 13,000 COVID-19 deaths Thursday as a result.

Whitmer and state health officials held a news conference on Wednesday in which they announced that Michigan was moving to a new phase of its vaccination rollout plan. The accelerated move means Michiganders 65 and older and some frontline essential workers will be able to receive COVID-19 vaccinations beginning Monday.

Police officers, first responders, frontline state and federal workers and jail and prison staff as well as PreK-12 teachers and child care providers are among the front-line workers able to receive COVID-19 vaccines beginning Monday, according to the state.