In response to a recent article published by the Detroit Free Press which indicates Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Legislative leaders are exploring ways to ensure in-person classes, the Michigan Association of Superintendents & Administrators, the Michigan Association of School Boards, the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals, the Middle Cities Education Association, the Michigan Elementary and Middle School Principals Association, the Michigan Education Association, AFT Michigan, and the Education Advocates of West Michigan released the following statement:

“Educators across the state are committed to providing in-person learning opportunities as safely as possible for Michigan’s 1.4 million children. Schools provide essential services for students and should be given the maximum amount of flexibility to stay open to serve children. Currently, Michigan law punishes districts for being open if attendance falls below the minimum threshold – even with the prevalence of COVID-19.

We are encouraged that the Governor and Legislature recognize the severity of this issue and we ask them to provide common sense relief for Michigan students and families. Easing Michigan’s bureaucratic attendance threshold for in-person learning will allow schools to remain open to continue to serve children without the threat of cuts to classroom funding.”