GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — At least two schools in West Michigan are bracing for Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to issue an executive order that will keep facilities closed through the rest of the academic year.
In a radio interview with WWJ, Whitmer said it is "very unlikely" students will return to school this year.
Grand Rapids Public Schools and Forest Hills Public Schools said in letters to district families that they are working on a plan for the rest of the year.
Whitmer closed all Michigan K-12 schools, including all public, private and boarding schools, earlier this month to slow the spread of COVID-19. Previously, school buildings were set to reopen Monday, April 6. However, she issued a stay-at-home order last week that will not be lifted until 11:59 p.m. on April 13 -- meaning students would not return to school until April 14, but that is now subject to change.
Whitmer is expected to make an announcement on the statewide school closures in the next few days.
RELATED: 'We Miss You!' | West Michigan teachers record messages to students while schools are closed
GRPS said in a letter to parents there has been some conflicting messages from the US Department of Education, Michigan Department of Education and the Office of the Governor.
Earlier this month, a memo from the Michigan Department of Education stated any time students spend learning during the mandated school closure will not count toward their required hours. Many schools switched to virtual learning, but the state clarified to superintendents there is no way to continue education during the closures.
Under state law, schools must have 75% student attendance each day in order for a district to receive full funding for that day. There is no current set up to track and verify attendance in distance learning situations.
GRPS said it's been told that the governor is working on a new directive that should give more guidance.
STATE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR COVID-19
Patients with confirmed infection have reportedly had mild to severe respiratory illness with symptoms of:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
The best prevention for viruses, such as influenza, the common cold or COVID-19 is to:
- If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19, call your health care provider. If you do not have a health care provider, call the nearest hospital.
- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for 20 seconds. If not available, use hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or upper sleeve when coughing or sneezing.
- Avoid contact with people who are sick.
- If you are sick, stay home, and avoid contact with others.
- Stay at least 6 feet away from others when in a public setting.
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- Local psychologist and nutritionist gives parents advice on meal prep, reducing stress
- Coronavirus outbreak not breaking learning at Grand Rapids West Catholic High School
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