Waterford Today

State Rep. Andrea Schroeder (R-Independence Township) urged Michigan’s governor and lawmakers to work together on a plan that prioritizes the health of schoolchildren statewide, stressing that time is of the essence.

Some schools in Michigan have already begun the 2020-2021 academic year, while others will soon commence classes.

“Students, teachers and everyone in our school communities are counting on the governor and their elected representatives in the Legislature, including myself, to come through for them with a safe, sensible plan supporting education during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Schroeder said in a release issued by her office this week. “That’s why I continue to work with my colleagues and the administration, fighting for a plan prioritizing health, flexibility, and financial stability. In my ongoing conversations with educators and families, it’s clear that’s what they need, want and deserve.”

Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the Republican-controlled Legislature are discussing a plan that would let the state’s school districts decide how to teach their own students this fall, a release issued on the Bridge Michigan website said. Individual districts can choose between in-person, remote or hybrid instruction. A number of school districts have already opted for virtual learning, including Bloomfield Hills, Grand Rapids and Lansing, citing ongoing COVID-19 fears.

Schroeder believes that both sides of the aisle will come together to work for what is best for Michigan's young citizens.

“I am hopeful the governor and legislative leaders across the political spectrum will join me to continue improving a back-to-school plan and finalize it as soon as possible,” Schroeder said in her office's release. “We must put health and safety first while empowering local communities to make the best decisions possible for their students and educators based on their unique situations – whether that means classes are online, in-person or a combination of both.”