07/02/2020: Update from Superintendent Yolanda Brunt:
Version en Espanol
Greetings Covert Families,
On June 30th, Governor Whitmer signed Executive Order No. 2020-142 Provision of PreK-12 Education for the 2020-2021 school year. This executive order provides a structure to support all schools in Michigan as they plan for a return of PreK-12 education in the fall. Under the order, school districts must adopt a COVID-19 Preparedness and Response Plan laying out how they will cope with the disease across various phases of the Michigan Safe Start Plan. The Plan must be completed by August 15, 2020, and posted to the website by August 17, 2020.
In the coming weeks, I will be working with local administration, the Van Buren ISD, the Michigan Department of Education, and Van Buren Cass District Health Department to create a plan to ensure our students continue to receive a quality education as we follow all health guidelines/protocols put in place for the incoming school year. Based on the current Phase 4 that we are under, part of the Executive Order includes at a minimum
(1) Require the wearing of face coverings, except during meals and unless face coverings cannot be medically tolerated, for:
-All staff and all students in grades pre-kindergarten and up when on a school bus.
-All staff and all students in grades pre-kindergarten and up when in indoor hallways and common areas.
-All staff when in classrooms
-All students in grades 6 and up when in classrooms.
-All students in grades kindergarten through 5 unless students remain with their classes throughout the day and do not come in contact with students in another class.
(2) Prohibit indoor assemblies that bring together students from more than one classroom.
(3) Incorporate the Return to School Roadmap’s required protocols governing hygiene, cleaning, athletics, screening, testing protocols, and busing, and student transportation.
I understand that this additional information may raise more questions and concerns. Know that we are not alone. Every district across the state of Michigan is dealing with these same challenges. Covert has faced and rose above challenging situations in the past and this is no exception. Know that our staff is caring, capable, and committed to the work that lies ahead. WE, WILL, CONTINUE TO WALK THROUGH THIS TOGETHER!
Please continue to check the district website, Facebook page, and your voicemail & email for the most up-to-date information.
Bulldog Strong!
Yolanda Brunt
Superintendent, Covert Public Schools
Link to Governor Whitmer’s Executive Order Here