Although distance learning is strongly encouraged while schools in the state are closed due to COVID-19, students currently in grades kindergarten to 12 are not obligated to participate under Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's executive order and they will be penalized if they do not do so.
“As a parent, I understand the challenge closing schools creates for parents and guardians across the state, which is why we are setting guidelines for schools to continue remote learning and ensuring parents have resources to continue their children’s education from the safety of their homes," Whitmer said in a release. "There is no video chat or homework packet that can replace the value of a highly trained, experienced teacher working with students in a classroom, but we must continue to provide equitable educational opportunities for students during this public health crisis.”
Michigan students have been out of school since the middle of March and parents are facing challenges over voluntary assignments or instructions on how students can improve their grades, if needed, from home assignments. School districts are to develop their own distance learning guidelines under Whitmer's order.
“Lake Orion Community Schools has made it very clear in multiple communications to parents and students the importance of students engaging in the learning that the district has prepared for all grade levels, whether or not it is identified as voluntary,” Superintendent Marion Ginopolis told The Oakland Press.
The current learning environment for many students involves attending class online and having virtual interactions with their teachers. Teachers also assign individual tasks for students.
According to an order released by Whitmer, all educators needed to submit a distance learning plan by April 28.
“It is incumbent on parents to monitor their student’s participation in partnership with the teachers who are preparing and delivering the lessons. If parents have questions or concerns, they should feel free to contact their child's teacher for guidance,” Ginopolis told The Oakland Press.
According to guidelines set by Waterford School District in Oakland County, kindergarten students should have about 30 minutes a day of instruction and high schoolers should devote about 2 hours a day. Most younger children would need a parent or guardian’s assistance in completing homework assignments
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