Announcements from the Office of State Rep. Julie Calley

On August 17th, State Rep. Julie Calley joined the Legislature in approving a bipartisan agreement to help get Michigan students safely back to school – whether it’s in-person, online or a hybrid approach.

Calley, of Portland, said the plan will allow school districts to work with local health experts and determine the best course of action for students, teachers and families in their communities. In-person attendance is not required at any grade level, but it’s strongly encouraged for grades K-5 when it can be done safely.

“As a mother, I completely understand the tough choices parents, teachers and school leaders all across our state are facing,” Calley said. “We all want to make sure our kids are safe, and we strive to do what’s best for their educations. This agreement will provide local school districts with the accountability and flexibility they need to maximize student learning while keeping kids safe during these unprecedented times.”

Calley said providing parents with the opportunity to voice their concerns is crucial to keep the school district and community informed of needed adaptations. Under the plan, school boards will reexamine and recertify how their districts deliver instruction to students at monthly board meetings for the duration of the 2020-21 school year.

Additionally, benchmark assessments will provide detailed information to parents and teachers about where a student needs additional help to ensure they stay on track.

Additionally, Calley said the plan will provide stability by clarifying expectations for schools for the duration of the 2020-21 school year, rather than starting the school year with parameters from an executive order set to expire at the end of September.

As the coming school year will also pose significant additional costs to school districts as they work to impose new safety standards and innovative teaching methods, the Legislature previously dedicated a total of $583 million in federal Coronavirus Relief Funds to Michigan schools, including:

• An additional $350 per student across the board, ensuring schools have the resources they need to educate children.

• More than $50 million in hazard pay for educators who have been flexible and innovative in the face of unprecedented change.

• $18 million for safety measures and local benchmark assessments to ensure kids stay on track with learning.

The plan now advances to the governor’s desk for consideration.

Rep. Calley also announced that she will welcome residents to attend outdoor office hours in two communities on Aug. 31.

Rep. Calley will meet with constituents at the following locations:

• Scheid Park Pavilion, 455 Main St. in Saranac from 10 to 11 a.m.; and

• Bob King Park Pavilion, 100 E. Woodlawn Ave. in Hastings from 12:30 to 2 p.m. A legislative update will be provided at 12:30 p.m., with an opportunity for individual meetings following at 1:30 p.m.

“Outside office hours have proven to be a successful alternative,” Rep. Calley said. “I deeply appreciate the interest and engagement from those who attend.”

No appointment is necessary. Out of consideration for other attendees, individual meetings will be kept to 10 minutes each. If you would like additional time or are unable to attend the scheduled office hours, please contact Rep. Calley via email at JulieCalley@house.mi.gov or by calling (517) 373-0842.