The Livonia Board of Education is meeting tonight to consider whether students should return earlier than expected to in-person learning.
Classrooms shuttered before Thanksgiving in favor of remote learning as experts warned about the dangers of a holiday spike in coronavirus cases. Remote learning only was set to continue until Jan. 15.
However with a steady decline in Michigan's coronavirus cases, school leaders are now considering a return on Monday, Jan. 11.
The board plans to consider the options and make a decision tonight.
The district had returned to in-person learning on Oct. 12, earlier than many surrounding Oakland County districts. At the time kids and teachers were first called back to classrooms, the district assured parents that all CDC guidelines were being closely followed.
As another return is considered, the district sent parents a letter saying, "We continue to be amazed by the resiliency of our students, families and staff as we journey through this highly unusual school year! It is also recognized that many of our students have struggled both academically and emotionally, so we would also like to remind families that LPS staff is standing ready to assist you and your child(ren) with their social-emotional needs and/or academic supports."
The letter adds, "With the recent start of the vaccine roll-out, we are hopeful that we are approaching the summit of the many challenges that this virus has presented for all. On behalf of our Board and district leadership team, we thank you for continuing to persevere in ways that are truly unbelievable! As we move into 2021, we are proud to do so together as a strong and resilient LPS community."
Meanwhile, the governor's latest pause, which includes an indoor dining ban, continues until Jan. 15. In-person learning at high schools, and attendance at casinos, gyms, salons and theaters were allowed to reopen or stay open.
Tuesday brought 2,291 new cases and 189 additional deaths in Michigan from coronavirus.
