2020-2021 Planning Update From the Superintendent

Thank you for your patience with us as this unique summer of planning for the new school year continues. As we move forward with our preparations for opening school face to face on August 26th, we have had to review how we will implement safety protocols for the good of all students and staff in our schools. Please understand that there are measures that are “required” by the state and other measures that are “strongly recommended.” Implementation of these safety/health measures is critical for opening our schools face to face.

Next week we will receive additional information from our Michigan District and the Michigan Association of Non-public Schools. In addition to this, the MHSAA has just recently released updated information regarding the start of fall sports. We also have an administrative meeting scheduled for Tuesday, August 4th to finalize our plans. We will then be able to send out the most current information regarding our “return to school” plans by Friday, August 7th for families to review.

For your general information, to open face to face, all Michigan schools must have plans that address specific requirements. These areas include:

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – All students and staff will wear masks unless eating.
Hygiene – Proper handwashing, hand sanitizing stations and signage reinforcing handwashing will be placed throughout buildings.
Cleaning/sanitizing - Desks and other frequently touched surfaces, bathrooms, etc. will be cleaned as required by the “return to school” plan.
Spacing, Movement, and Access – Appropriate physical distancing in seating and class sizes will be implemented.
Screening/Testing – We will be partnering with parents for at-home screening and work with the local health department regarding students/staff with symptoms or who test positive.
Choir/Band – Appropriate physical distancing and additional safety protocols for all music classes will be implemented.
Limiting visitors on campus – Visitors will be limited with appropriate screening in the main office.
Bussing - Cleaning & physical distancing protocols will be in place for all school transportation.

In some ways, school will look different. There are aspects of this “return to school” plan that may be slightly challenging, but we are confident we can work together to fulfill these safety measures. We do look forward to bringing our students back to the classroom and continuing to share the Gospel in person.

God’s Peace!