UP Schools adjust to new COVID-19 recommendations

The start of the school year is quickly approaching. U.P. schools will need to adjust to new COVID-19 recommendations.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) issued guidance for schools statewide last week.

MDHHS advice includes promoting vaccination for school staff and improving ventilation throughout school buildings. School administrators should also work with local health departments for contact tracing and quarantine protocols, the MDHHS said.

NICE Community Schools Superintendent Brian De Augustine said the recommendations are important, but districts shouldn’t see them as a one-size-fits-all solution. State and federal health recommendations should be looked at on the local level, De Augustine said.

NICE Community Schools are taking advice from the Marquette County Health Department. He noted school districts should be ready for sudden changes. And with the start of the school year a month out, things could change, he said.

Full MDHHS recommendations are available at COVID-19_Guidance_for_Operating_Schools_Safely_728838_7.pdf (michigan.gov)