On Jan. 8, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer held a press conference about schools opening back up for in-person learning. From gathering the data for months, she saw that schools can establish a low risk of transmitting by ensuring everyone wears masks and adopts certain protocols. Whitmer “strongly encourages” Michigan schools to have in-person learning by March 1. 

In-person learning will not be required, however. All students will have the option of whether or not they want to come back. Robert McCann, executive director for the K-12 Alliance of Michigan, said that in-person learning is the best option for students. In order to be successful in opening the schools back up, McCann said they “will require access to the COVID-19 vaccine for school employees.” 

Monroe High School is not opening fully but learning labs and small groups can resume. 

Monroe High School Principal Stephen Pollzzie gave an update regarding the press conference. “Based off the current local data, Dr. Everly announced that we are able to return to Learning Labs and small group instruction starting next Tuesday, Jan. 19,” Pollzzie said. 

He also said this is a step in the right direction to get back to in-person learning. 

“If the trends continue in the downward Direction for our community, we can move towards a more familiar school routine — my hope is that we can continue to work hard as a community to be vigilant with the mitigation strategies,” Pollzzie said.