Michigan continues to halt in-person high school classes another 12 days

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer speaks during a press conference Monday, Dec. 7. (State of Michigan)

High schools in Michigan will remain closed for in-person instruction for 12 more days starting Wednesday, as concerns rise over COVID-19 cases in the state, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said Monday afternoon.

“The additional 12 days will allow the department to determine the full impact of the Thanksgiving holiday on the spread of COVID-19 across Michigan,” according to a statement from the state.

Students have been learning virtually since mid-November, when the state instituted a three-week pause that placed greater restrictions on restaurants, bars, and gyms. K-8 students were not affected.

The state announced the three-week pause on Nov. 15. It was set to expire at 11:59 p.m. Tuesday.

In addition to halting in-person learning at high schools and higher education institutions, the pause has shut down theaters, stadiums, arenas, casinos, group fitness classes, and organized sports. Restaurants and bars can open only for outdoor dining, takeout, and delivery.

The Latest

Multiple reports say an FBI investigation relates to a now-defunct edtech company. Here’s what we know so far.

The state is still in the midst of a comprehensive review ordered by a bipartisan 2023 law. But some lawmakers say the state should make an effort to reduce the time students spend on tests.

“Nobody in the state actually regulates how BOCES operate or what they can do,” said the leader of a membership group for public education co-ops.

Bills reshuffling Indianapolis schools, requiring a bell-to-bell school cellphone ban, and implementing lessons about waiting until marriage to have children are going to the governor’s desk.

A report calls for doing more to connect research to classroom practice. Will the Education Department act on it?

The teen coalition during Thursday’s school board meeting said their proposals would have given students more say in how the district addresses mental health needs and building concerns.