MDHHS encourages schools to open for in person learning by March 1st

(LANSING, Mich.) The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is encouraging school districts to offer an in person learning option for all students by March 1st, and earlier if possible. During a Friday news conference in Lansing, MDHHS provided guidelines for schools to safely offer in person instruction. "MDHHS will continue to do what it takes to save lives and limit the spread of COVID-19," said MDHHS director Robert Gordon. "At the same time, in-person instruction is critical for the current and the future well-being of children, especially young learners and students who are disadvantaged." Governor Gretchen Whitmer also spoke, encouraging the return to in person learning. "The value of in-person learning for our kids is immeasurable and we must do everything we can to help them get a great education safely," said Whitmer. "Over the last 10 months, medical experts and epidemiologists have closely followed the data and have learned that schools can establish a low risk of transmission by ensuring that everyone wears a mask and adopting careful infection prevention protocols." In addition to wearing masks MDHHS is also encouraging schools to keep students six feet apart from one another as much as possible. The guidance also encourages schools to place students in cohort groups and limit interaction to inside those groups. School districts are also urged to improve air ventilation, have plans in place in the event there are any positive COVID tests, and provide enough hand sanitizing supplies. The state will begin allowing teachers and childcare providers to get the COVID-19 starting Monday January 11th.