North Kent News

The Michigan Legislature recently passed the "Return to Learn" plan, giving both the power and responsibility for ensuring a safe return to school this year to the local school districts and their communities.

Sen. Rick Outman (R-Six Lakes) said he voted for the legislation because it ensures the safety of students returning to school, according to the MiSenateGOP website.

“Education and student safety aren’t partisan matters,” Outman told MiSenateGOP. “As we quickly approach the beginning of a new school year, we need to be cognizant of the challenges teachers, students and parents will be facing and ensure that health and safety continue to be of the utmost importance.”

Sen. Rick Outman | #MiSenateGOP

In addition to providing the school districts with the ability to tailor their educational approach to the needs and realities of local communities, the legislation also requires them to continuously update their response so that it meets the current virus threat level.

“A one-size-fits-all approach is not the right answer — we need to let local districts make decisions that best meet the specific needs of students in their communities,” Outman said, according to MiSenateGOP.

Districts will still be required to provide a full school year of instruction but will have the flexibility to make that happen in a way that meets the needs of their communities.

The legislation also requires school districts to set benchmarks that will provide families with an accurate assessment of how their children are being educated.

“Parents are rightfully concerned about the safety of their children, and teachers are rightfully concerned about the risks associated with returning to the classroom,” Outman told MiSenateGOP. “Safely providing students with an education remains a top priority. This bipartisan package allows schools to do what’s best to meet their own specific needs.”