COVID-19 Information Archive

RELATED LINKS

COVID-19 Screening Tool for Bedford Families

COVID-19 INFORMATION LINKS

Monroe County Community COVID-19 Data

CDC COVID-19 Information

CDC Fact Sheets

MDHHS COVID-19 Information

Michigan High School Athletics Association Coronavirus Updates

 

COVID & SCHOOLS

The Monroe County Health Department (MCHD) has put together a series of handouts related to COVID and schools: MCHD SCHOOL HANDOUTS

It includes information about:
-- Process for a COVID-19 Case at School
-- Process for COVID-19 Exposure at School
-- COVID-19 Privacy and Contacts
-- Cohorts help to limit COVID-19 contacts
-- How does COVID-19 spread?
-- What are the chances of catching COVID-19?
-- Who might be a close contact?
-- When a student should stay home or may be sent home?

PREVENT THE SPREAD

Below is a helpful reminder of ways to help prevent the spread of the virus:
-- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
-- Practice elbow bumps instead of handshakes.
-- Stay home if you are sick and advise others to do the same.
-- Always cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue or sleeve.
-- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
-- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.|
-- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, if soap and warm water are not available.
-- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surface.

COVID-19 NOTIFICATION

HIPAA and FERPA laws require Bedford Public Schools to keep all medical information confidential. The Monroe County Health Department (MCHD) is the lead agency in COVID-19 related matters and will only disclose information on a need-to-know basis.

Please refer to the COVID-19 Dashboard for the current data on COVID-19 at Bedford Public Schools. Data will be updated at the end of each school day and this will serve as a means of updating our community in place of notification letters. Any close contacts will continue to be notified directly by MCHD.

PREVIOUS SCHOOL YEAR INFORMATION

RETURNING TO SCHOOL 2020-2021 SCHOOL YEAR

MDHHS EMERGENCY ORDER 10-6-2020: Reporting Cases

MDHHS EMERGENCY ORDER 10-5-2020: Gatherings & Masks

EXECUTIVE ORDER No. 2020-185: Amendment to the Provision of PreK–12 education for the 2020–2021 school year order

EXECUTIVE ORDER No. 2020-142: Provision of preK–12 education for the 2020–2021 school year

Michigan’s 2020- 21 Return to School Roadmap (Full Document)

BPS FAQs

BPS COVID-19 Workplace Safety Plan, Feb. 2021

BPS Preparedness & Response Plan

Continuity of Learning Plan, 4-10-2020

Continuity of Learning Plan, 9-25-2020

PREVIOUSLY ISSUED COVID-19 NOTIFICATION LETTERS:

 

September 25, 2020: BHS Case

September 15, 2020: BJHS Case

August 15, 2020: Ladies Cross Country

August 11, 2020: BJHS/BHS Cheerleading

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED COVID-19 INFORMATION


COVID Dashboard ThumbnailBEDFORD PUBLIC SCHOOLS COVID-19 DASHBOARD

Bedford Public Schools updated the COVID-19 Dashboard graphic at the end of each school day.

BPS COVID-19 Data Summary ThumbnailBPS COVID-19 WEEKLY DATA SUMMARY

This document was a collection of additional statistics updated on a weekly basis. It includes data from our COVID-19 Dashboard as well as the additional charts on New Confirmed Cases in Bedford Township by Zip Codes (48182 and 48144) is tabulated for the week in a chart broken down by age range plus another one tracking the increase in cases each week for Monroe County as a whole. Vaccine information is included. Positivity Rates and Average Number of New Cases Per 100,000 for the week for Monroe County are also listed.

BOARD OF EDUCATION COVID DATA UPDATES

October 28, 2021
November 18, 2021
December 16, 2021
January 6, 2022
January 27, 2022
February 24, 2022


Probable or Confirmed COVID-19 Individuals On School Property Or At a School Function

Governor Whitmer's Executive Order 2020-185 requires school districts, beginning on October 5, 2020, to publish information about cases of probable or confirmed COVID-19 individuals present on school property or at a school function during the period of infection.

Published information will include:

   -- The date the individual’s symptoms started;
   -- The date 48 hours prior to the date on which symptoms started;
   -- Dates the individual was present on district property starting from 48 hours prior to onset of symptoms;* and
   -- The specific district building(s) or property at which the individual was present during the dates listed above.*

The first two points are necessary for contact tracing pursuant to CDC guidance, and the second two points provide information to assist in narrowing the scope of individuals who might constitute close contacts. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (“CDC”) has provided guidance regarding contact tracing, which defines a “close contact” as “any individual who was within 6 feet of an infected person for at least 15 minutes starting from 48 hours before the person began feeling sick until the time the patient is isolated.”

HIPAA and FERPA laws require Bedford Public Schools to keep all other medical information confidential. The Monroe County Health Department (MCHD) is the lead agency in COVID-19 related matters and will only disclose information on a need-to-know basis and they will notify anyone considered a close contact.

*We are including information on any individual cases of a staff or student that is listed on our COVID-19 Dashboard after October 5, 2020, even if that individual was not physically present on district property during the period of infection. Those cases will have N/A (Not Applicable) appearing in the fields for the date on the property and specific building/property.


BPS UPDATED COVID-19 PROTOCOLS AND GUIDANCE  

(Updated February 28, 2022)

On February 25, 2022, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) updated their published community risk levels with a new three tier “Community Levels” Guide. The updated guidance places Monroe County in the Medium COVID-19 Community Level. The main guidance for this level is as follows:

-- If you are at high risk for severe illness, talk to your healthcare provider about whether you need to wear a mask and take other precautions
-- Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines
-- Get tested if you have symptoms

In addition to the updated community risk level guidance, the CDC also removed the long-standing mandate requiring students and passengers riding on public school buses to wear facial masks at all times. These changes have been made possible by the significant decrease in new COVID-19 cases around the country, the lowest COVID-19 hospitalization rates since the summer, and increased abilities to combat the virus through vaccination and newly approved medications. Of course, any individual may choose to mask at any time. Individuals who are experiencing symptoms, received a positive test, or who are concerned for their well-being should also wear a mask. Based upon the newest updates from the CDC and our local community positivity and case data, the following BPS COVID-19 Protocols are in effect as of February 28, 2022.

VACCINATION:

As we have done throughout the pandemic, BPS supports and strongly recommends that all individuals be vaccinated as soon as they are eligible. BPS has collaborated and hosted four separate vaccination clinics in the previous twenty-four months. This includes the largest 1-day vaccination clinic held in the county with over 1,000 vaccinations administered. Currently, 80% of the BPS teaching staff and an additional large percentage of the district support staff are vaccinated. In addition, many of our district’s eligible students have also been vaccinated in part, thanks to the support of MCHD and our neighboring partner providers.

FACIAL MASKS:

Bedford Public School will no longer require students, staff, and guests to wear a facial mask when inside of our district buildings or while utilizing district buses and transportation. Bedford Public Schools will continue to recommend that families and staff members act accordingly based upon their personal comfort level. District buildings will continue to make masks available for individuals that request them.

CONTACT TRACING:

Bedford Public Schools will continue to work with the Monroe County Health Department (MCHD) when students and staff members report a positive test. Individuals identified by the MCHD as a close contact will need to follow the MCHD guidance for quarantine. Individual classrooms that have in-school exposure will be notified directly through Schoology or parent email.

ISOLATION AND QUARANTINING:

Individuals that test positive or who are identified as a close contact exposure outside of school must follow the current MDHHS/MCHD Guidelines. Current MDHHS Guidance states that individuals that test positive, or who are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms should isolate for a minimum of five days. Individuals who are identified by MCHD as a close-contact must quarantine for a minimum of five days and be symptom free before returning to school or work. These individuals must report their diagnosis to the district nurses through email or telephone. BPS will be discontinuing the Test-to-Stay Program for students and staff based on current case numbers and the low level of participation over the previous month.

AVAILABLE TESTING SERVICES:

Bedford Public Schools will no longer maintain our Test-to-Stay Program based on this latest update for district protocols. However, individual buildings will continue to maintain a supply of COVID-19 test kits for staff and families that request a test for their child who is experiencing symptoms. A signed parent permission slip must be on file for a building health aid to perform a COVID-19 Antigen Test. Tests will not be completed without the signed form and parent permission for each test requested.

BPS DAILY MITIGATION STRATEGIES:

Bedford Public Schools continues to successfully implement many mitigation strategies during the 2021-2022 school year. These strategies will be continued throughout the remainder of the school year or until our district’s key data metrics indicate a change is appropriate.

-- All buildings within the district have now received updated HVAC units with improved ventilation thanks to the community approved 2018 district bond and supplemental federal COVID Relief Funds. The newly installed MERV 13 Air Filters provide additional contaminant filtering for improved classroom ventilation.
-- Daily classroom and building disinfection utilizing 360-degree electrostatic disinfectant sprayers
-- Daily scheduled hand washing break at the elementary level
-- Hand sanitizer stations in every district classroom and main area
-- Cafeteria seating to promote social distancing where available
-- Limited building guests to ensure safe environments and limit outside exposure for students and staff.
-- Maximized classroom spaces by reducing non-essential classroom furniture and materials
-- Increased classroom supply of disinfectant wipes for hard surfaces
-- Increased number of water bottle filler stations across the district to eliminate water fountain use

ATTENDANCE:

During the 2020-2021 school year, amidst the pandemic, schools in Michigan were given flexibility around meeting the normal attendance for students. The State of Michigan legislature adjusted the Michigan School Code to relax these attendance requirements anticipating student and staff quarantines, as well as periods of remote/virtual learning.

In a typical school year, however, state law requires that students attend school for a minimum of 180 school days AND a total of 1098 hours. Additionally, for an individual school day to count as one of the 180 school days, at least 75% of students must be in attendance. On any given day, if fewer than 75% of students are in attendance, that school day will need to be made up. For the 2021-2022 school year, these laws are back in place with zero option for flexibility regardless of whether attendance at school is pandemic related. Therefore, the Bedford Public Schools Attendance Policy is once again in place for the current 2021-2022 school year.

POTENTIAL ALTERNATE LEARNING MODELS:

Bedford Public Schools believe that in-person learning is the best learning model for a large majority of our students. However, in severe circumstances, BPS may be forced to transition from in-person to remote learning for a specific classroom, school building, grade level(s), or the district as a whole. If this transition becomes necessary, district leaders will outline the specific information that will help assist in the process. The 2021-2022 remote learning process includes students learning synchronously from their scheduled teachers using district approved remote learning platforms.


TRANSPORTATION MASK REQUIREMENT REMOVED

On February 25, 2022, the CDC updated their COVID Risk Levels by publishing new "Community Levels" guidelines and recommendations. Based upon these new updates, Bedford Public Schools will be issuing new district updates to our current COVID-19 Protocols on Monday, February 28, 2022.

A major component of the CDC's newest guidance is that facial masks are no longer mandated on public school buses and district vehicles. Therefore, while district leaders continue to work on the complete update that will be released tomorrow, I can announce that effective Monday, February 28, 2022 masks will no longer be required to be worn by students or staff while riding on district transportation. As always, BPS encourages all individuals that choose to continue to wear masks to please do so.

Thank you all for your patience as the district has and continues to sort through state and federal mandates and recommendations.

Respectfully,
Dr. Carl Shultz
Superintendent


MASK UP, MASK RIGHT

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has released the following guidance on what is the right mask and the right way to wear it to keep each other safe. 

Mask Up Mask Right PNG graphic (text description follows this image)

WHAT TO WEAR

  • A three-layered washable cloth mask
  • A three-layered disposable mask
  • KN95

HOW TO WEAR

  • Secured over the nose and mouth
  • Tightly fitting without gaping

WHAT IS NOT RIGHT

  • Neck gaiter of loosely tied bandana
  • Noticeable gaps, holes, or vents
  • Masks with vents
  • Face shield worn without a mask (except for individuals who cannot medically tolerate a face covering)
  • N95 masks intended for healthcare workers 

BPS UPDATED COVID-19 PROTOCOLS AND GUIDANCE  

(Updated February 10, 2022)

Bedford Public Schools has worked vigilantly to maintain a safe and productive learning environment for students and staff members. The protocols included in this document are in no way an indication of permanent changes to our pre-pandemic learning environment and may change as our local, state, and national landscape improves or worsens based on positive or negative case data. This most recent update is believed to be a positive step in the right direction and is based upon updated local, county, and state COVID Data. Additional data that was used to determine appropriate and measured decision-making includes local, county, and regional district case data based on their current COVID Protocols (i.e. Masking requirements, quarantine and isolation process, and demographics). Finally, the widespread availability of vaccines for individuals ages five and up have helped to allow families feel more comfortable in a multitude of public settings. BPS will continue to highlight and respect student, staff, and family choices above and beyond any district-wide protocols that are in place to ensure personal comfortability. The guidance being utilized for the continued close-contact quarantine process and positive case isolation process continues to follow protocols established by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

VACCINATION:

As we have done throughout the pandemic, BPS supports and strongly recommends that all individuals be vaccinated as soon as they are eligible. BPS has collaborated and hosted four separate vaccination clinics in the previous twelve months. This includes the largest 1-day vaccination clinic held in the county with over 1,000 vaccinations administered. Currently, 80% of the BPS teaching staff and an additional large percentage of the district support staff are vaccinated. In addition, many of our district’s eligible students have also been vaccinated in part, thanks to the support of MCHD and our neighboring partner providers.

FACIAL MASKS:

Effective February 11, 2022, Bedford Public School will no longer require students, staff, and guests to wear a facial mask when inside of our district buildings. Bedford Public Schools will continue to recommend that all individuals strongly consider wearing facial masks and that individual factors such as personal health and medical tolerance, vaccination status, proximity to others based on situations, etc. are used in making personal masking decisions.

This change does not affect the district’s optional close contact test-to stay protocol or the reduced five-day positive case isolation option which will continue to include masking components.

This change does not remove the federal government’s mask requirement on transportation, which includes school buses. Everyone will be still be required to wear masks on our buses.

To ensure mask effectiveness, this diagram link demonstrates acceptable types of masks and proper wearing position for all individuals when inside district facilities.

CONTACT TRACING:

For the purpose of identifying close contact exposure, the district will continue to complete contact tracing when alerted of a positive case exposure within our schools and school related outside events. While each positive case is unique, a close contact is identified when an unmasked individual was within three feet of an unmasked positive individual for a minimum of fifteen minutes and had direct physical contact during the interaction. BPS district nurses will continue to make the final determinations on close contact cases based upon available information.

ISOLATION AND QUARANTINING:

Following CDC and MDHHS Guidance, the updated quarantine and isolation length is five days for both positive individuals who are symptom free and close contact exposures. The complete updated protocol for district isolation and quarantining can be found here: Updated BPS Isolation and Quarantining Protocols. Additional information regarding the updated Isolation and Quarantining protocol and options can be found using the following links:

Updated BPS Isolation and Quarantine Protocols Visual Graph

BPS Test-To-Stay Option Protocol

BPS Test-To-Stay Option Parent/Guardian Consent Form

BPS DAILY MITIGATION STRATEGIES:

Bedford Public Schools continues to successfully implement many mitigation strategies during the 2021-2022 school year. These strategies will be continued throughout the remainder of the school year or until our district’s key data metrics indicate a change is appropriate.

• All buildings within the district have now received updated HVAC units with improved ventilation thanks to the community approved 2018 district bond and supplemental federal COVID Relief Funds. The newly installed MERV 13 Air Filters provide additional contaminant filtering for improved classroom ventilation.

• Daily classroom and building disinfection utilizing 360-degree electrostatic disinfectant sprayers

• Daily scheduled hand washing break at the elementary level

• Hand sanitizer stations in every district classroom and main area

• Cafeteria seating to promote social distancing where available

• Limited building guests to ensure safe environments and limit outside exposure for students and staff

• Maximized classroom spaces by reducing non-essential classroom furniture and materials

• Increased classroom supply of disinfectant wipes for hard surfaces

• Increased number of water bottle filler stations across the district to eliminate water fountain use

ATTENDANCE:

During the 2020-2021 school year, amidst the pandemic, schools in Michigan were given flexibility around meeting the normal attendance for students. The State of Michigan legislature adjusted the Michigan School Code to relax these attendance requirements anticipating student and staff quarantines, as well as periods of remote/virtual learning.

In a typical school year, however, state law requires that students attend school for a minimum of 180 school days AND a total of 1098 hours. Additionally, in order for an individual school day to actually count as one of the 180 school days, at least 75% of students must be in attendance. On any given day, if fewer than 75% of students are in attendance, that school day will need to be made up. For the 2021-2022 school year, these laws are back in place with zero option for flexibility regardless of whether attendance at school is pandemic-related. Therefore, the Bedford Public Schools Attendance Policy is once again in place for the current 2021-2022 school year.

POTENTIAL ALTERNATE LEARNING MODELS:

Bedford Public Schools believe that in-person learning is the best learning model for a large majority of our students. However, In severe circumstances, BPS may be forced to transition from in-person to remote learning for a specific classroom, school building, grade level(s), or the district as a whole. If this transition becomes necessary, district leaders will outline the specific information that will help assist in the process. The 2021-2022 remote learning process includes students learning synchronously from their scheduled teachers using district approved remote learning platforms.


BPS UPDATED COVID-19 PROTOCOLS AND GUIDANCE  

(Updated January 12, 2022)

Bedford Public Schools has worked vigilantly to maintain a safe and productive learning environment for students and staff members. The protocols included in this document are in no way an indication of permanent changes to our pre-pandemic learning environment and may change as our local, state, and national landscape improves or worsens based on positive or negative case data. This most recent update is believed to be a positive step in the right direction and is based upon updated guidance by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

VACCINATION:

As we have done throughout the pandemic, BPS supports and strongly recommends that all individuals be vaccinated as soon as they are eligible. BPS has collaborated and hosted four separate vaccination clinics in the previous twelve months. This includes the largest 1-day vaccination clinic held in the county with over 1,000 vaccinations administered. Currently, 80% of the BPS teaching staff and an additional large percentage of the district support staff are vaccinated. In addition, many of our district’s eligible students have also been vaccinated in part, thanks to the support of MCHD and our neighboring partner providers.

FACIAL MASKS:

All students grade K-12, district staff, and visitors will be required to wear a facial mask when inside any district facility and while riding on district buses. To ensure mask effectiveness, the following diagram demonstrates acceptable types of masks and proper wearing position for all individuals when inside district facilities.

• Masks are not required when outside of district buildings.

• Student athletes actively participating in an indoor athletic event or practice and gym class participants are not required to wear masks during competition/physical activity. However, when not engaged in physical participation of the event or practice, masks must be work by student athletes and coaches (ie. Sitting on benches or standing on sidelines).

• Masks may be removed whenever actively eating or drinking when inside of buildings and must be replaced when finished.

• Students and staff members may wear school appropriate personal masks if they meet the criteria outlined in the diagram linked above. Students and staff members needing a mask when entering buildings will have them provided by the district.

• Any student or staff member who cannot medically tolerate wearing a mask should present authentic documentation from his/her medical doctor to the building principal or department director.

CONTACT TRACING:

BPS has adjusted our contact tracing protocols to reflect the current masking mandate. Students and staff members wearing masks inside district facilities will not be considered a close contact for COVID-19 exposure unless the contact is during lunches or other unique circumstances. For the purpose of close contact exposure, an unmasked individual must be within three feet of an unmasked positive individual for a minimum of fifteen minutes or have direct physical contact during an activity while unmasked. The determination for close contact tracing requiring quarantine is based on district nursing staff members.

ISOLATION AND QUARANTINING:

Following CDC and MDHHS Guidance, the updated quarantine and isolation length is five days for both positive individuals who are symptom free and close contact exposures. The complete updated protocol for district isolation and quarantining can be found here: Updated BPS Isolation and Quarantining Protocols. Additional information regarding the updated Isolation and Quarantining protocol and options can be found using the following links:

Updated BPS Isolation and Quarantine Protocols Visual Graph

BPS Test-To-Stay Option Protocol

BPS Test-To-Stay Option Parent/Guardian Consent Form

BPS DAILY MITIGATION STRATEGIES:

Bedford Public Schools continues to successfully implement many mitigation strategies during the 2021-2022 school year. These strategies will be continued throughout the remainder of the school year or until our district’s key data metrics indicate a change is appropriate.

• All buildings within the district have now received updated HVAC units with improved ventilation thanks to the community approved 2018 district bond and supplemental federal COVID Relief Funds. The newly installed MERV 13 Air Filters provide additional contaminant filtering for improved classroom ventilation.

• Daily classroom and building disinfection utilizing 360-degree electrostatic disinfectant sprayers

• Daily scheduled hand washing break at the elementary level

• Hand sanitizer stations in every district classroom and main area

• Zoned playgrounds at the elementary level to limit large group gathering and promote cohort adherence

• Cafeteria seating to promote social distancing where available

• Limited building guests to ensure safe environments and limit outside exposure for students and staff. Classroom volunteers will be permitted inside buildings beginning with the start of the 2nd semester. All volunteers must follow the same mitigation strategies as students and staff.

• Maximized classroom spaces by reducing non-essential classroom furniture and materials

• Increased classroom supply of disinfectant wipes for hard surfaces

• Increased number of water bottle filler stations across the district to eliminate water fountain use

ATTENDANCE:

During the 2020-2021 school year, amidst the pandemic, schools in Michigan were given flexibility around meeting the normal attendance for students. The State of Michigan legislature adjusted the Michigan School Code to relax these attendance requirements anticipating student and staff quarantines, as well as periods of remote/virtual learning.

In a typical school year, however, state law requires that students attend school for a minimum of 180 school days AND a total of 1098 hours. Additionally, in order for an individual school day to actually count as one of the 180 school days, at least 75% of students must be in attendance. On any given day, if fewer than 75% of students are in attendance, that school day will need to be made up. For the 2021-2022 school year, these laws are back in place with zero option for flexibility regardless of whether attendance at school is pandemic-related. Therefore, the Bedford Public Schools Attendance Policy is once again in place for the current 2021-2022 school year.

POTENTIAL ALTERNATE LEARNING MODELS:

Bedford Public Schools believe that in-person learning is the best learning model for a large majority of our students. However, In severe circumstances, BPS may be forced to transition from in-person to remote learning for a specific classroom, school building, grade level(s), or the district as a whole. If this transition becomes necessary, district leaders will outline the specific information that will help assist in the process. The 2021-2022 remote learning process includes students learning synchronously from their scheduled teachers using district approved remote learning platforms.


UPDATED DISTRICT COVID-19 PROTOCOLS FAQ

(Updated October 24, 2021)

In response to this hopefully short-term district crisis, BPS will be implementing the following new district-wide COVID-19 protocols, effective immediately:

Masking: All students grade K-12, district staff, and visitors will be required to wear a facial mask when inside any district facility. (Additional information regarding this requirement is in the updated FAQ linked below).

• To ensure mask effectiveness, the following diagram demonstrates acceptable types of masks and proper wearing position for all individuals when inside district facilities.
• Masks are not required when outside of district buildings.
• Student athletes actively participating in an indoor athletic event or practice are not required to wear masks during competition. However, when not engaged in physical participation of the event or practice masks must be work by student athletes and coaches (ie. Sitting on benches or standing on sidelines).
• Masks may be removed whenever actively eating or drinking when inside of buildings and must be replaced when finished.
• Students and staff members may wear school appropriate personal masks if they meet the criteria outlined in the diagram linked above. Students and staff members needing a mask when entering buildings will have them provided by the district.
• Any student or staff member that cannot medically tolerate wearing a mask should present authentic documentation from his/her medical doctor to the building principal or department director.

Quarantine: The new updated masking requirement will significantly limit the number of student and staff close-contact quarantines which will assist in meeting our goal of maintaining high quality in-person learning.

• Whether a student or staff member is vaccinated or not, no quarantine is required if they are a close contact to a positive case when following the district’s updated masking requirement (unless there are mitigating circumstances that would require quarantine consideration such as not always properly following masking protocols). If a student or staff member tests positive, the below protocol will be implemented for quarantine.

Protocol: 10-14 day quarantine from symptom onset date or positive PCR test date if asymptomatic

Daily Screening Tool: District families are asked to utilize the provided District COVID-19 Daily Screening Tool each morning before school to determine if students are healthy enough to attend classes.

Disinfection: The district will continue to disinfect all classrooms each day.

• Nightly disinfecting of classrooms using 360 Degree Electrostatic Disinfectant Sprayers

Handwashing and Sanitizing: The district will continue to increase the opportunities for student handwashing at the elementary level. Hand Sanitizer stations will continue to be offered throughout each building.

• District provided hand sanitizer is available for all classrooms and common areas within buildings.

Social Distancing: All classrooms will continue to utilize as much social distancing between student workstations as possible.

• Student desks facing all the same direction inside of classrooms or additional spacing provided when this design is not possible due to physical space limitations.
• Group type work assignments will be limited unless absolutely necessary in STEM, CTE, Arts, etc.

District Visitors: District visitors will be permitted on a limited basis while following updated protocols.

• Visitors or guests will be permitted within buildings on a limited basis as long as all updated district protocols are followed at all times.

Air Filtration and Air Flow: All BPS school buildings have newer or updated air filtration units that provide increased air filtration and air flow return rates.

• Classroom windows may also be utilized to provide additional fresh air exchange and circulation when appropriate.


BPS FALL 2021 COVID PROTOCOLS

As of the date of this letter, the federal government and State of Michigan have removed a vast majority of the mandated COVID-related protocols that were in place during our previous school year. The two remaining mandates that BPS must incorporate as we return for the 2021-2022 school year include:

1) all students and staff members must wear a facial mask while on district school buses per CDC Guidance, and
2) the district will continue to post and update district-specific positive case data on the district website daily.

The district will be following these mandates until we receive updates that they are no longer in place by the authorizing agencies. In addition to the listed mandates, both the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) have produced recommendations for the safe start to the school year. These recommendations include promoting vaccination for all eligible students and staff members within the district and the wearing of facial masks while inside of school facilities. Considering this updated guidance, the district will utilize the following protocol for the start of the school year.

VACCINATION:

As we have done throughout the pandemic, BPS supports and strongly recommends that all individuals be vaccinated as soon as they are eligible. BPS has collaborated and hosted three separate vaccination clinics in the previous six months. This includes the largest 1-day vaccination clinic held in the county with over 1,000 vaccinations administered. Currently, 80% of the BPS teaching staff and an additional large percentage of the district support staff are vaccinated. In addition, many of our district’s eligible students have also been vaccinated in part thanks to the support of MCHD, our local Walgreens, and other neighboring providers.

FACIAL MASKS:

BPS will continue to emphasize the importance of masking during these uncertain times. At this time, masks are strongly recommended for individuals (students, staff, and guests) in all BPS buildings and required for all students/staff while riding district bussing. This recommendation follows CDC and MDHHS published guidance for both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals. This protocol may change at any time based on the variables listed above in order to maintain in-person learning within the district. District buildings will have available masks in supply for individuals daily. Finally, the district will take a proactive approach in helping students and staff understand that regardless of mask wearing status, each individual is here to learn and comments and or singling out persons for choosing something different from his/her choice will not be acceptable. We appreciate any steps that families can take to prepare their children for these expectations.

CONTACT TRACING:

During the last month of the 2021-2022 school year, BPS utilized the CDC’s updated guidance on student and staff contact tracing. This process worked effectively for the district, as we experienced zero affiliated transmission cases based on reduction from the 6 feet to 3 feet for close proximity to a positive individual. BPS will conduct contact tracing for every confirmed positive exposure this year utilizing the same 3 feet distance standards. For individuals found to be in close contact exposure in the classroom or during extra-curricular events, BPS will use the quarantine guidelines listed.

QUARANTINING:

Following CDC and MDHHS Guidance, the standard quarantine length is 10-14 days. BPS will use this guidance for all individuals who test positive, regardless of vaccination status. For individuals identified as close contacts, the following options will be considered.

VACCINATED INDIVIDUALS:

Generally, if a student or staff member is vaccinated, no quarantine is required if they are a close contact to a positive case. If a vaccinated student or staff member tests positive, the below protocol will be implemented for quarantine.
Protocol 1: 10-14 day quarantine from symptom onset date or positive PCR test date if asymptomatic

Unvaccinated Individuals:
Protocol 1: 10-14 day quarantine (depending on exposure circumstance/positive test date/symptom(s) on-set)

Protocol 2: On day 7 of quarantine, may get a PCR test, if PCR is negative, then can return before day 10, with no symptoms

Students identified as a close contact while exposed riding a district bus will not be required to quarantine as long as the mandated mask policy is in effect. In addition, if an unvaccinated student that has followed the district’s facial mask recommendations at all times (except when eating or outside for recess/activity) is identified as a close contact within the classroom setting, they may continue to attend school, while continuing to properly wear a mask as long as they are symptom-free.

DAILY SCHEDULES:

All BPS school buildings will return to our traditional learning schedules. The reduced schedules that were in place during the 2020-2021 school year assisted the district in preparing and maintaining the multiple learning programs that we offered. The district’s return to our traditional full schedule will once again allow for daily specials at the elementary level and full period classes in our secondary buildings. In addition, all students within Bedford Public Schools will receive free school lunch again during the 2021-2022 school year based upon the approval of the federal free-lunch waiver. Service in lunchrooms across the district will continue to have mitigation strategies in place to ensure the safest possible
environments. Individual buildings will share additional information regarding school lunches and protocols.

CONTINUED BPS MITIGATION STRATEGIES:

Bedford Public Schools successfully implemented many mitigation strategies during the 2020-2021 school year. These same strategies will be continued throughout the current school year until our district’s key variables and factors detailed in the Superintendent Update letter support a change. These mitigation strategies include:

  • All buildings within the district have now received updated HVAC units with improved ventilation thanks to the community approved 2018 district bond and supplemental federal COVID Relief Funds
  • Daily classroom and building disinfection utilizing 360-degree electrostatic disinfectant sprayers

  • Daily scheduled hand washing break at the elementary level

  • Hand sanitizer stations in every district classroom and main area

  • Zoned playgrounds at the elementary level to limit large group gathering and promote cohort adherence

  • Alternate specials class scheduling at the elementary level to promote cohort adherence and limit daily resource and materials exposure

  • Cafeteria seating to promote social distancing where available

  • Limited building guests to ensure safe environments and limit outside exposure for students and staff

  • Maximized classroom spaces by reducing non-essential classroom furniture and materials

  • Increased classroom supply of disinfectant wipes for hard surfaces

  • Increased number of water bottle filler stations across the district to eliminate water fountain use

ATTENDANCE:

 

During the 2020-2021 school year, amidst the pandemic, schools in Michigan were given flexibility around meeting the normal attendance for students. The State of Michigan legislature adjusted the Michigan School Code to relax these attendance requirements anticipating student and staff quarantines, as well as periods of remote/virtual learning.

 

In a typical school year, however, state law requires that students attend school for a minimum of 180 school days AND a total of 1098 hours. Additionally, in order for an individual school day to actually count as one of the 180 school days, at least 75% of students must be in attendance. On any given day, if fewer than 75% of students are in attendance, that school day will need to be made up. For the 2021-2022 school year, these laws are back in place with zero option for flexibility regardless of whether attendance at school is pandemic-related. Therefore, the Bedford Public Schools Attendance Policy is once again in place for the upcoming school year.


CHANGES TO OUTDOOR MASK PROTOCOLS AT BPS

Tuesday, May 25, 2021
Good Afternoon BPS Staff and Families,

Throughout the entire pandemic, changes that affect Bedford Public Schools have come quite rapidly. These past few weeks are no exception and the changes continue to come fast and furious with the recent relaxing of epidemic orders. Overall, this is a good problem to have as it proves that our efforts are producing results that support getting back to normal as soon as possible. However, with this good news also comes confusion about how to best respond to these changes with less than three weeks left in the school year. We have successfully been in a face-to-face learning environment throughout most of the entire school year, largely due to the protocols that we have maintained and strong cooperation from our students, staff, and families. As the end of the year approaches, we would like to ensure that we finish strong without outbreaks or closures. With that in mind, I would like to cover a few items presented in the MDHHS updated epidemic health order and address each of these item’s individual impact on current BPS protocols. If there are additional items specific to a building, building principals will communicate that following this update.

The first change to the epidemic order states that no mask is required for anyone outdoors. This change will take effect here in BPS beginning today. This change in our mask policy includes recess, outdoor school-related activities, end of the year programs and celebrations, and athletics on our home facilities (we do not control rules, expectations, or protocols off of our district campus). It would be our hope that as ambassadors for the BPB community, district guests would adhere to any policy or requests when visiting other school districts or their associated venues.

The second change to the epidemic order states that those fully vaccinated will no longer have to wear masks indoors. BPS WILL NOT be making this change at this time. This change would only impact a very small number of district students who are fully vaccinated at this point (2 weeks after their 2nd shot (Moderna and Pfizer) or 2 weeks after their first/only shot (Johnson & Johnson) and would not apply to any staff because of conflicting regulations from several governmental agencies. We will continue to mask inside school buildings based on regulations that we have at this time. This policy and adherence applies to all employees, students and anyone else who is permitted in BPS buildings or riding on BPS-provided transportation. Based upon the most updated information received from Lansing, all COVID-related mandates and protocols are expected to be lifted on July 1, 2021. This is most welcome news for our community and district as we continue planning for the 2021-2022 school year. At this time, we fully believe that our district will return to pre-COVID daily school schedules for all students.

As we know, this current order and policy may change as more information or orders become available. I want to once again thank you for the tremendous amount of support BPS has received from our staff and community this year. This support has allowed us to hold in person instruction while also providing other options to support our families. We are very proud of what we have collectively accomplished this year and know that as we continue to work together we will finish the year strong!

Respectfully,
Carl Shultz, Ph.D
Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools


CHANGES TO STUDENT QUARANTINE PROTOCOLS

May 15, 2021
Students, Parents, Staff and Community Members,

As you are most likely aware, there have been multiple modifications made this week to COVID-19 Guidance by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). These updates demonstrate positive momentum in the fight to safely begin returning to a more “normal” state of being for our state and nation. The updates that will impact Bedford Public Schools students and staff immediately are in relation to our close contact quarantine protocols.

STUDENT QUARANTINE

On Monday, May 10, 2021, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) issued a statement that the department will no longer issue or enforce orders requiring students to quarantine when identified as a close contact within schools. The statement included details regarding the ability of local county health departments to develop their own countywide health orders as necessary in relation to student quarantines. As of today, Monroe County Health Department (MCHD) has not issued a local health order mandating student quarantines and instead have stated that local school districts should follow their own district data and guidelines.

BPS Administration and staff have continuously monitored and reported COVID-19 Case Data as necessary and required by state legislation. Since the beginning of the pandemic, the district has reported a total of 209 confirmed positive student cases and 2,259 close contact quarantines following state and county guidelines. This data is significant, as it has helped district officials to clearly understand the correlation between positive cases and virus transmission within our classrooms. A closer look into this district-specific data shows that out of the identified 209 confirmed positive student COVID-19 cases, only 8 total cases can be traced directly back to transmission within a BPS classroom. To state this in simplified terms, less than 4% of our total student positive cases were a result of contact within our school buildings. Based on the diligent contact tracing activities of our BPS nursing staff and building administrators, it has been demonstrated that a great majority of our positive cases are the result of family member contact and activities outside of the traditional school day.

Additionally, the commitment of our families to monitor for COVID-19 related symptoms and keeping symptomatic students home has had a dramatic impact on the level of in-school transmission. Managing COVID-19 has been an ever-changing situation and we remain committed to providing you with the best and most current information. Using this evidence and continued school-level mitigation strategies already in place, we believe that we can safely reduce the instances where close contact quarantining will be necessary for students.

Effective immediately, Bedford Public Schools will only quarantine individual non-fully vaccinated students identified as close contacts when:

1) Student lives in a household where a member of the family has a confirmed positive COVID-19 test.

2) Student is a close contact in a documented COVID-19 “outbreak” within the school setting (MDHHS defines an outbreak as two or more cases with a link by place and time indicating a shared exposure outside of a household).

BPS is proud and thankful for the continued partnership with our students, families, staff, and community. The change enacted today is the result of our collective efforts to contain and overcome this pandemic. While we recognize that COVID-19 related decisions often come with varied community opinions, we continue to rely on the guidance of the medical experts at the state and federal levels as well as our own COVID-19 data. We are confident that this change will provide students with far greater educational opportunities while continuing to maintain the safe learning environment that our students and staff have enjoyed throughout this year. Thank you for your trust and partnership as we navigate through this pandemic. Your patience, flexibility, and understanding are truly appreciated.

Respectfully,
Carl Shultz, Ph.D
Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools

UPDATED STUDENT QUARANTINE PROTOCOL FAQ

(Students that are fully vaccinated based on CDC Guidelines will not need to quarantine unless they are experiencing active symptoms)

Does this impact the ten-day isolation for positive cases?
No. Positive cases will still need to isolate for ten days from the onset of symptoms or from the testing date.

Do family members of a positive case still need to quarantine?
Yes. Family members will still be required to quarantine for the full 20 days (ten days of isolation and an additional ten days of quarantine) from the positive test or onset of symptoms for the positive case.

Will the school still contact trace?
Yes. We will still identify and document close contacts of positive cases within our school buildings however only students who develop symptoms will be required to quarantine. If your student is identified as a close contact, the school will inform you, but the student will not need to quarantine unless they develop symptoms.

Will the District still enact quarantines?

Yes, but only as needed. For example, if two or three cases occur in a classroom or sports team, the entire classroom or team may need to quarantine. Each case will be evaluated separately.

Does this impact quarantine for staff?
No. Under Public Act 339 of 2020, staff members are still required to quarantine if they are identified as a close contact unless they are fully vaccinated or were positive for COVID in the past 90 days.

Do athletes still need weekly testing?
Yes. This change is specific only to quarantine of close contacts within a school setting. Athletes must still adhere to the MDHHS orders for competition.

Should my student stay home with COVID related symptoms?

Yes. This is especially true if your student is a close contact to a positive case. We have multiple instances where students remained home when ill, later tested positive for COVID, and no other staff or students were infected because the student stayed home. Please keep your children home until they are 24 hours without symptoms or have an alternate diagnosis such as allergies.

Does this change the need for social distancing?

No. Social distancing is still included in the Federal and State orders.

Does this change the need for cleaning protocols?
No. Cleaning protocols are still included in the Federal and State orders.

When can my student return from quarantine?
All students who are currently on school-related quarantine can return to school/activities effective immediately, unless they are a part of a household where a positive case has been diagnosed.


HIGH SCHOOL &
JUNIOR HIGH TO TEMPORARILY SUSPEND
IN-PERSON LEARNING

EFFECTIVE: IMMEDIATELY - MARCH 19TH
NO CHANGES FOR ELEMENTARY STUDENTS

 

March 10, 2021 

Dear BPS Parents/Guardians,

Bedford Public Schools leadership and staff have remained vigilant in our pursuit to maintain  in-person learning options for students across all district grade-levels. This endeavor has been  challenging for all members of our BPS family. Unfortunately, due to a significant increase in  confirmed positive COVID-19 cases and subsequent quarantining at Bedford High School and  Bedford Junior High School, both buildings will be temporarily suspending in-person learning  effective immediately. This transition to a full-virtual model for BHS and BJHS will be in place  through March 19, 2021 (seven school days total) with students returning to in-person learning  beginning on Monday, March 22, 2021. All elementary buildings will remain in their current  model as the vast majority of positive cases over the previous seven days have been reported  at the secondary campus. Overall, Bedford Public Schools has received 22 new confirmed  COVID-19 cases in the past ten days. This includes ten new cases at Bedford High School  alone over the previous 24 hours. In addition to the positive cases, there are now over two  hundred students currently on a state mandatory ten-day close contact quarantine between  BHS/BJHS. In consultation with the Monroe County Health Department, the decision to  transition the secondary buildings based on current and trending data is a necessity to help slow  down the spread and reduce the overall impact on our district and community as a whole.  Several other communities within Monroe County have faced the same decision over the  previous week. It is our sincere hope that this countywide spike in positive cases is an anomaly  and not an indication of a prolonged increase. 

As with any transition, there will be many extended decisions that will need to be made over the  next few days regarding this brief change in learning model. Academic program-related  information such as class schedules will be shared through individual school building principals.  Extra-curricular programs and events will be made on a case-by-case decision and will be  facilitated by the individual program directors/leaders. The district will maintain as many of these  programs as possible while learning remotely in an attempt to provide outlets for students when  safe, feasible, and appropriate. District Food Service will be transitioning to a pick-up service  model similar to how it operated during the fall closure for secondary students and families.  Meals will be available for pick-up at Bedford Senior High School between 1:30-3:00 pm on  Thursday 3/11, Monday 3/15, and Thursday 3/18. These details, along with more information,  will be shared with all families via the district website. 

 

Finally, as BPS and MCHD leadership have worked to conduct contact tracing protocols per  State of Michigan Guidelines it has become more evident than ever that in order to maintain a  safe and successful in-person learning model we need to work together as a community. The  following bullet points are being shared once again in an attempt to provide reminders for all  district families: 

  • If your child has any of the symptoms described in the district-provided COVID-19 screener  which is available on our website, he/she must be kept at home until proper medical diagnosis  and testing is complete 
  • If a family member has any COVID-19 related symptoms and is awaiting test results, your child  should remain at home until a negative test result is received (even if he/she is not exhibiting  symptoms they would be close contacts) 
  • If your child is identified as a close contact and quarantined by BPS or MDHS, he/she should  remain as secluded as possible within your home and not attend any school sponsored or  community related events (this is the number one identified factor in our current cases).  Students participating in out of district events and activities while on quarantine has led to a  large number of positive cases across the region. Please remember that a close contact can  become ill for up to ten-days from the start of their quarantine due to the latency period of the virus. 

Additional COVID-19 related information can be found on the BPS district website. If you have any questions regarding symptoms or the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19), please visit the Monroe County Health Department website or contact them directly at (734) 240-7860. 


Sincerely, 

Dr. Carl Shultz

Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools


FINISHING 1ST SEMESTER & PLANNING FOR 2ND SEMESTER IN-PERSON CHANGES

January 8, 2021
Dear Bedford Public Schools Parents/Guardians,

Yesterday, at the Board of Education Meeting, the Board unanimously approved the district’s return to our previously implemented in-person cohort style learning program beginning on Monday, January 11, 2021. The plan is for all students to return to the same learning environment that he/she was in on the last day of in-person learning on November 11, 2020. Students will have the opportunity to select a new learning program for the start of the 2nd semester beginning on February 1, 2021. Individual building level principals have already sent information to their families with additional details.

In addition, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced this afternoon that the State of Michigan has established revised guidance for K-12 schools and will no longer be following the formerly implemented MI Safe School Roadmap. Adopted in June of 2020, the Roadmap was used by all districts within the state to create our initial learning plans along with allowable timelines for learning plan transition. The revised guidance, formerly known as the State of Michigan Guidelines for Operating School Safely, is much more concise than the originally adopted MI Safe School Roadmap and places the responsibility to determine safe school operations and transition timelines on local districts and health departments. Many of the same health and safety mitigation strategies included in the Roadmap remain in the new guidance along with some additional tools and resources being made available to local districts. Governor Whitmer’s announcement also included a plan to ensure that all districts within the state return to offering an in-person learning opportunity to families who want their children in classrooms as soon as possible, but no later than March 1, 2021.

I can say that I am pleased with much of today’s information as it allows districts like Bedford to focus on our local students and what is happening in our community as opposed to following a regional approach where BPS was attached to districts as far as Oakland and Macomb counties. As stated during yesterday’s Board meeting, BPS leadership has already begun the process of reviewing our current in-person learning programs to better suit the needs of our students and staff members. The goal is to create an updated in-person learning program that will closely resemble what our highly successful traditional classroom learning looks like districtwide. The mandatory/necessary health and safety mitigation strategies will still be implemented districtwide making a return to our full traditional program impossible for this year. We can, however, make great strides for our next transition. A continuation of the recent data trends within our county and township could see implementation of this newly designed program as early as the start of the 2nd semester on February 1, 2021. THIS IS OUR GOAL IF DATA ALLOWS.

Finally, I understand that we will never be able to satisfy everyone’s immediate hopes and wishes as a district. I can only say that all decisions have and will continue to be made on what we feel is best for the community as a whole. Regardless of the in-person learning program in implementation, BPS will continue to maintain a full-virtual option for K-12 families who do not feel comfortable having their children inside physical classrooms for the remainder of the year. As I have stated numerous times this year, 2020-2021 will simply look different than any other year and the lessons that we learn will be a growth opportunity for all of us. Please be safe and know that we are all in this together. The absolute best way to ensure a long and successful return to in-person learning is for families, students, and district staff to follow all precautionary guidelines and practices. If you or a loved one are not feeling well, please remain at home and allow our buildings to remain safe. I look forward to seeing our students on Monday!

Carl Shultz, Ph.D
Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools


RECOMMENDING RETURN TO PREVIOUS IN-PERSON INSTRUCTION MODEL

January 6, 2021
Dear BPS Families,

I hope that the New Year has found you safe and well. Ever the optimist, I am looking forward to what this flip of the calendar will bring for our students and district as a whole. In my previous Superintendent Update, I reiterated that the district is continuing to monitor relevant local and county COVID-19 case data to assist with making the recommendation for our next steps toward returning to in-person learning. I also detailed that the district’s current full-virtual model of learning would be once again evaluated at the upcoming January 7, 2021 Board of Education Meeting.

Based on this ongoing review of data, I am pleased to be able to report that the number of weekly-confirmed cases has decreased steadily over the past thirty days in both Monroe County and Bedford Township. Monroe County experienced a slight increase between the weeks of December 25th and January 1st presumably due to the Christmas holiday, but otherwise has decreased overall by 50% from a month ago. In addition to the decrease in confirmed cases, there have been other significant factors that will positively affect our district’s ability to move toward a return to in-person learning. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the State of Michigan have recommended a reduction in the length of time that an individual who has tested positive or has been identified as a close contact should remain quarantined if no symptoms exist from 14 days down to 10 days. The reduced number of quarantine days will assist district leaders in being able to keep our classrooms and supporting departments adequately staffed. Finally, the rollout of available COVID-19 vaccines across the nation should further support our efforts. Educational staff members have been placed in the Phase 1b Vaccination Group nationally which means that individuals interested in receiving a vaccine could be vaccinated beginning as early as next week across the state (location depends on current/future vaccine stockpiles).

In consideration of the updated data and newly available supports, I will be making a recommendation to our Board of Education during tomorrow evening’s meeting that Bedford Public Schools return to our previous In-person Cohort Learning Model beginning Monday, January 11, 2021. Prior to the suspension of in-person learning, the district had sent out the student learning program selection survey for 2nd Quarter. Unfortunately, the timing of the in-person learning suspension did not allow the requested program changes to be implemented. This means that because there are only three weeks remaining in the 2nd Quarter, all students will remain in the learning programs that they were participating in before the suspension of in-person learning began.

During Thursday’s meeting, district leadership will also discuss plans for returning the district to a more traditional schedule of in-person daily learning for all grades K-12. Due to the mandated health and safety mitigation strategies in place throughout the district, even our return to a more traditional type-learning schedule for all students that is more in line with what families and teachers are familiar with will look a bit different than we are used to in BPS. As soon as final details are complete, district leaders will share this information with the community. The goal for transitioning from the cohort learning model to this more traditional type model will be to begin at the start of the second semester (February 1, 2021). Of course, any further steps toward this next level transition will require our COVID-19 case numbers to remain consistently lower.

As always, I hope that this update finds you and your family safe and well and I look forward to being able to share additional positive news over the next couple of weeks.

Respectfully,
Carl Shultz, Ph.D
Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools


MDHHS EMERGENCY ORDER EXTENDED UNTIL DECEMBER 20TH

December 7, 2020
Dear Bedford Public Schools Parents/Guardians,

Earlier today in an afternoon press conference, MDHHS Director Robert Gordon extended the order limiting gatherings in the State of Michigan until Sunday, December 20 at 11:59 PM by issuing a new Emergency Order under the Michigan Public Health Code (MCL 333.2253). Under the new order, all in-person learning activities for students in grades 9-12 remain suspended. Districts may continue to educate high school students through remote/virtual learning. In addition, the order prohibits extra-curricular events for all students’ grades K-12 including athletics, arts, school clubs, etc. While the order limits extra-curricular activities for grades PreK-8, the new order continues to leave the decision about in-person PreK-8 instruction to the local district and health department. As you are aware, Bedford Public Schools will remain fully remote preK-12 through the next scheduled Board of Education Meeting on January 7, 2021 based on current township level data and Monroe County Health Department collaboration.

As with the current three-week order, we've been told that data will continuously be evaluated to determine if these new restrictions will remain in effect after the December 20, 2020 scheduled end date. Gov. Whitmer shared that reopening will be based on three metrics. Specifically, the department will be looking closely at the percentage of hospital beds with COVID patients, the number of COVID-19 cases, and the positivity rate. With improvements in those numbers in context, MDHHS will reopen some sectors of the economy, with in-person learning at high schools a priority.

BPS will continue to update our families and staff regarding any significant changes in local data or learning plans as necessary. I know that many of our families are under a high level of stress and that a number of our students are in a fragile state without the normal wrap-around support that being inside of our school buildings often provides. The district is working to identify needed supports that can assist families and students who are struggling the most at all levels. Please look for further communication from building principals and district staff regarding these additional opportunities. In the meantime, I ask that you continue to communicate concerns and needs to your child’s teacher(s), counselors, and building administrators.

Thank you all for your support and patience and I wish you a safe and well few weeks leading up to the holiday season.

Sincerely,

Dr. Carl Shultz
Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools


FULL VIRTUAL LEARNING EXTENDED UNTIL JANUARY

December 4, 2020
Dear BPS Families,

On November 12, 2020, Bedford Public Schools suspended all in-person learning programs due to the sharp increase in confirmed positive COVID-19 cases among students and staff members. I stated at that time that it is the district’s belief that students and staff members are safer within our classrooms and hallways than in any other public location. I still believe this statement to be true thanks in part to the comprehensive mitigation strategies that our district has employed to ensure a safe learning environment. I also know that BPS students and staff do not reside within a bubble and thus spend a majority of their days and evenings outside of our classrooms with family, friends, and other members of the community. This daily and completely normal exposure by members of the district leads to COVID-19 exposure on many levels. Bedford Public Schools, like any other public entity, must follow the strict guidelines set forth by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and our state and local health departments. In doing so, BPS students and staff must quarantine whenever they have been deemed as a close contact (exposure within six feet for a total of fifteen minutes to a confirmed positive individual). At the time of the district’s announcement to suspend in-person learning, BPS had a total of 138 students and 24 staff members in fourteen-day quarantine, ultimately leading to the decision to suspend in-person instruction until revisited at the December 3, 2020 Board of Education Meeting.

At last evening’s Board of Education Meeting, a review of BPS related COVID-19 data was presented. Unlike in previous discussions, the district could not focus on our current number of district-wide quarantines because our students and staff have been working from their homes. BPS is currently reporting 11 staff members as either positive or close contacts due to outside exposure. However, because we are not physically in session, we are unable to determine the accuracy of the number of students or staff members who are currently in quarantine. Therefore, the focus for last evening’s review was the number of positive cases residing within Bedford Township as a whole and the ages of these positive individuals (school-aged students 5-18). Unfortunately, these two very important pieces of township data are not trending in the right direction demonstrating large week-to-week increases. As previously stated, BPS students and staff make up a large portion of the Bedford Community and thus our data throughout the pandemic has mirrored one another.

Utilizing this background knowledge and current verified data, the Bedford Board of Education unanimously supported the recommendation last evening to remain in our current full-virtual learning program through the next scheduled Board of Education Meeting on January 7, 2020.
 At this meeting, the Board will once again review the most current data available to determine if it is reasonable to begin transitioning students and staff back into our buildings. I want to reassure our community that our Board and I believe that it is imperative that we return to in-person learning as soon as possible. We truly understand the inherent challenges associated with learning remotely and the stresses that it places on families and student learning. However, the continuity of remote learning is more promising than the option of bouncing students, families, and staff back and forth weekly based on positive case number spikes and necessary quarantining. The stability of our remote learning plan allows families to plan and reduces the anxiety of what next week may bring for their child.

I wanted to end this message with some positive information. As discussed at last evening’s meeting there are reasons to be hopeful. Just this week the CDC announced that their guidelines for quarantining individuals who are identified as close contacts of persons with COVID-19 have been updated from 14 days to 10 days (7 days if the close contact showed no symptoms and receives a negative diagnostic COVID-19 test). This reduction of quarantine will help districts such as BPS with staffing issues when we begin to transition back to in-person learning. In addition, based on initial reports, the United States is likely to follow European nations by officially approving multiple COVID-19 vaccinations within the next couple of weeks. According to CDC Board discussions, educational personnel will be included in the second phase of vaccination recipients or Phase 1b (Phase 1a are Health Care Professionals and Long-term care facilities). While none of us knows for sure the exact timeline for the phasing and availability of the vaccines, it is believed that educators could be offered the opportunity sometime in January or February. Although these future positive pieces may not immediately support returning to in-person learning, they do open the door for improved conditions and for the opportunity of returning our buildings to a more traditional daily schedule when opened.

As always, I hope that this update finds you and your family safe and well and that everyone has a peaceful and restful holiday season.

Respectfully,

Dr. Carl Shultz
Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools


ATHLETIC & EXTRA CURRICULAR EVENTS SUSPENDED

November 15, 2020
Dear BPS Parents/Guardians,

This evening Governor Whitmer announced that in response to the escalating number of positive COVID-19 cases across our state, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has issued a new Epidemic Order that has suspended all in-person learning for students in grades 9-12. The order calls for school districts to work directly with local health departments to make determinations locally regarding in-person learning for students in Pre-K through 8th grade. In addition, the order immediately suspends all athletic and extra-curricular events at all levels. This order will remain in effect until Tuesday, December 8, 2020.

As you are already aware, Bedford Public Schools has suspended all in-person learning programs Pre-K through 12th grade due to the number of local cases and the impact on our district’s ability to staff programs. Therefore, this new MDHHS Order has very little effect on our learning programs. However, the order does immediately pause all student athletic and extra-curricular events through its duration. District coaches and program coordinators will be sending out additional information within the next day or two for students and parents. Our district food service program will continue as scheduled with pick-up service available on Monday and Thursday at designated locations. Our MRE Latchkey program will also continue as long as we are able to staff the program adequately.

The order has additional mandates included that are outside of the K-12 educational setting. Restaurants and taverns will be closed for inside service and other businesses will have to suspend operation during this order. BPS and our students rely a great deal on these local business owners by asking for their constant support throughout the school year for fundraising, donations, and marketing opportunities. I can only speak on behalf of myself and my family when I ask that all community members do whatever you can to support these local restaurants and businesses throughout this time. Please consider purchasing gift cards, ordering carry-out, scheduling banquets for future events, purchasing clothing items representing their locations, and any other ideas you may have that will help carry these businesses through this challenging time. We all need one another more than ever if Bedford is going to emerge from this pandemic as strong as we entered it.

You can find additional information regarding the programs and businesses affected within this new MDHHS Order by clicking this link MDHHS Info Graphic. Thank you and be healthy and safe.

Sincerely,
Dr. Carl Shultz
Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools


LETTER FROM SUPERINTENDENT: DISTRICT SUSPENSION OF ALL IN-PERSON LEARNING AND TRANSITION TO FULL VIRTUAL LEARNING

November 9, 2020
Dear BPS Parents/Guardians,

Bedford Public Schools leadership and staff have remained vigilant in our pursuit to maintain in-person learning options for students across all district grade-levels. This endeavor has been challenging for all members of our BPS family. The mitigation strategies that have been instituted have made it possible for nine full weeks of available in-person learning. I would like to personally thank all of our students, staff, and families for making the necessary sacrifices needed to make this opportunity possible. As we all have undoubtedly realized throughout 2020, the impacts and changes to our daily lives as a result of this pandemic are often determined by many more factors than our own personal preference and choices. Unfortunately, despite our best efforts and desire to remain in-person, we have always known that the impact of COVID-19 on our community would determine our district’s ability to maintain our current in-person learning program options. Due to the significant increase of confirmed positive COVID-19 cases and subsequent quarantining, Bedford Public Schools will be suspending all in-person learning options and transitioning all district classrooms to full-virtual learning programs beginning on Wednesday, November 11, 2020.

This decision is both difficult and necessary to ensure our ability as a district to keep families safe and learning continuous. BPS is more than aware of the strain that this transition places on our families. We sincerely hope that we are able to share news that is more positive in the upcoming days, weeks, and months. This decision was made in coordination with our partnering experts at the Monroe County Health Department and was based on current and trending local data. In addition to health and safety factors, the most pressing challenges that have forced our transition is the significant number of staff and students who have been placed in quarantine following identified positive individual cases of the virus. These quarantines have made it impossible to adequately staff our in-district learning programs. These challenges are not limited to teaching staff and have affected our transportation, food service, and academic support staff as well.

There will be many extended decisions that will need to be made over the next few days and weeks regarding this transition. Academic program-related information will be shared through individual school building communications. Extra-curricular programs and events will be made on a case-by-case decision and will be facilitated by the individual program directors/leaders. The district will maintain as many of these programs as possible while learning remotely in an attempt to provide outlets for students when safe, feasible, and appropriate. District Food Service will be transitioning to a pick-up service model similar to how it operated during the spring closure. These details, along with more information, will be sent out to all families as it becomes available over the next few days.

Finally, to help our families and community better understand the current data driving this decision, we have created a one-page dashboard with current local, county, and state information. This dashboard by clicking on this dashboard link above. District leadership will reevaluate the suspension of in-person learning programs based on these data sets during the first week of December. If you have any questions regarding symptoms or the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19), please visit the Monroe County Health Department website or contact them directly at (734) 240-7860. Thank you and I hope that everyone remains safe and well as we continue to fight this pandemic together.

Sincerely,
Dr. Carl Shultz
Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools


HIGH SCHOOL TO REOPEN FOR IN-PERSON LEARNING ON MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2;
BEDFORD FOOD PICKUPS TO RESUME NOVEMBER 12

October 30, 2020
Dear Bedford Public Schools Parents/Guardians,

As we start Halloween weekend and the end of our eighth week of school, I would like to begin by thanking all of our staff members for working together and our parents and students for hanging in there over these past several weeks. On Wednesday evening, I communicated to our families and staff that we would need to temporarily transition our Bedford High School Learning Program to a full-virtual model for minimally the remainder of the school week. I am pleased to be able to share that BHS will be reopening for in-person cohort model learning on Monday, November 2, 2020.

As described in my recent email, BHS was forced to transition to full-virtual learning due to a positive staff related COVID-19 case. In addition to the positive case, eight additional staff members were placed in a 14-day quarantine resulting in the district’s inability to facilitate in-person learning under state and federal requirements. However, through flexibility and teamwork we have been able to successfully work out the details of a revised plan that will allow the building to once again be available for students that elect to learn onsite. I thank those individuals who have helped in this process.

Unfortunately, the district will not be able to hold our next three scheduled food service pick-up days. BPS Food Service pick-up for our virtual learners will resume on Thursday, November 12, 2020. To assist our families that are learning virtually with this need, BPS has partnered with some of our neighboring districts to welcome our families to participate in their programs until we are able to resume service. The dates and times for these available options will be posted on the BPS Website and our social media sites soon.

Thank you, and I hope that everyone has a safe and mindful holiday weekend.

Dr. Carl Shultz
Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools


LETTER FROM SUPERINTENDENT ON HIGH SCHOOL CLOSING FOR IN-PERSON LEARNING FOR REMAINDER OF WEEK AND SHIFT TO VIRTUAL LEARNING

October 28, 2020
Dear Bedford High School Parents/Guardians,

I hope that this message finds your family safe and well. Late this afternoon, district leadership received notification that one of our non-instructional BHS staff members has tested positive for COVID-19. The Monroe County Health Department and Bedford Public Schools Nursing staff have begun contact tracing protocols and hope to finish this process within the next 24 hours. The process has already identified several BHS ancillary staff members who will need to quarantine. We have already determined that the individual has not had any contact with district students.

Due to the number of staff members who are potentially affected in this COVID-19 related situation, Bedford High School will transition to full-virtual learning for all students for the remainder of this week. Once all contact tracing is complete, district leadership will work closely with the Monroe County Health Department to determine if a full two-week transition to virtual learning is needed. This decision will be shared with families and staff as soon as possible (most likely Friday evening or Saturday morning). This short-term closure of the building for in-person learning also means that tomorrow’s scheduled food service pick-up will be cancelled as well. District leaders are working with our neighboring local districts to identify opportunities for our families who require assistance with food service for Thursday through Sunday. We will share this information on our district website and social media accounts as soon as possible.

The Bedford Public Schools Secondary Level Learning Plan was designed for these types of situations. It allows for all students to maintain their normal course learning schedules. The only difference is that students who have been attending their homeroom lab daily will now need to work from home. The expectation is that all students continue with their scheduled classes over the next two days. This situation does not affect any current ongoing extra-curricular or athletic events.

While it is disappointing to temporarily have to suspend face-to-face instruction at BHS, it is understood that this will be a potential reality throughout this school year in order to take the precautions that help keep our community safe. The district will take this opportunity to thoroughly disinfect the entire BHS facility to ensure that students and staff return to a safe learning environment. If you have any questions or need additional information regarding COVID-19, please visit the Monroe County Health Department (MCHD) website. District leadership will continue to act responsibly to ensure that all possible mitigation strategies are implemented. We ask for your continued vigilance in helping to take all necessary steps to ensure that our students and families remain safe. Thank you for your partnership.

Respectfully,
Dr. Carl Shultz
Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools


SUPERINTENDENT LETTER ON TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF
FACE-TO-FACE PROGRAMS AT SMITH ROAD ELEMENTARY

October 21, 2020
Dear SRE Parents/Guardians,

This email is to inform you that Smith Road Elementary will be closed for face-to-face instruction starting Thursday, October 22, 2020 through Wednesday, November 4, 2020. Face-to-face instruction will resume on Thursday, November 5, 2020. The district received notification of a positive COVID-19 case within the building yesterday and immediately sent out a parent communication. Unfortunately, BPS has received additional positive case notifications at SRE today and despite support from the Monroe County Health Department (MCHD), Monroe County Intermediate School District (MCISD), and strong district contact tracing, we are not able to clearly isolate all potential close contacts. In addition, several close contacts from yesterday’s case are considered potential cases. The current total for positive cases within the building is three individuals, along with a fourth individual that has visited the building. Out of an abundance of caution, we believe that in order to best support the health and safety of our students and staff, we need to close the building down for two weeks to prevent further potential outbreaks.

While it is disappointing to temporarily have to suspend face-to-face instruction at SRE, it is understood that this will be a potential reality throughout this school year in order to take the precautions that help keep our community safe. The SRE Programs affected directly by this closure include Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE), Head Start, and Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP). Each individual program’s staff members will be communicating with their families independently to provide additional learning program details and to share learn-at-home resources throughout the temporary building closure.

At this time, MCHD health experts are working with leadership from both BPS and MCISD to continue to establish contact tracing protocol. If you are informed that your child has been in close contact (individuals within six feet apart for at least fifteen minutes) with a confirmed positive case, please follow the directions of the MCHD health expert that will be contacting you. If you do not receive any contact, then your child has not been identified as a close contact, but we ask that you please continue to monitor your child’s health for any new symptoms. If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact Monroe County Health Department (MCHD) directly.

I want to thank you for your patience, understanding, and support as we continue to navigate learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. District leadership will continue to act responsibly to ensure that all possible mitigation strategies are implemented. The entire SRE Facility will be cleaned and sanitized immediately to ensure that students and staff return to a safe learning environment on November 5, 2020.

Sincerely,
Dr. Carl Shultz
Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools
(734) 850-6001


LETTERS FROM SUPERINTENDENT ON CHANGES TO MASK REQUIREMENTS

OCTOBER 6TH UPDATE

October 6, 2020
Dear Bedford Public Schools Parents/Guardians,

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has issued two separate emergency orders utilizing the powers granted under Michigan Compiled Laws (MCL) 333.2253. The first of these orders signed on October 5, 2020 outlines Statewide Limits to In-person Gatherings and updates Mask Requirements for all Michigan residents (including students in grades K-12). The second order issued on October 6, 2020 (hours ago) requires school districts within the state to provide Public Notification for Probable or Confirmed Cases of COVID-19. While these two MDHHS Emergency Orders are newly issued, the content contained within the orders are extremely similar to that of the now invalidated Executive Orders previously ordered by Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

Based on consultation with our district’s legal firm and our partnering statewide educational groups, Bedford Public Schools will begin transitioning to meet the requirements outlined in the two separate MDHHS Emergency Orders. Beginning this week, students in grades Y5/K through fifth will be required to wear masks when inside the classroom. BPS staff began transitioning to this previously under Governor Whitmer’s former Executive Order. I want to once again reiterate that just as building staff has in higher grade levels, students will be given opportunities throughout the school day when they will be able to remove their masks for set breaks to ensure comfort. The district will also begin the transition to follow the newly updated public gathering limits. These increased gathering limits will allow for additional student activities and participation in more school activities.

The second of the MDHHS Emergency Orders relates to district communication and tracking of COVID-19 related data. The order states that “School districts and nonpublic schools must publish information about any cases of a probable or confirmed COVID-19 positive individual present on school property or at a school function during the period of infection.” As shared in previous updates, Bedford Public Schools has already created a comprehensive COVID-19 Dashboard for the purpose of sharing timely and accurate COVID-19 related data within all buildings. The district will continue to update this information daily as necessary. As a reminder, moving forward, I will not be sending out districtwide letters each time a building within the district experiences a positive case of COVID-19. The building principal will share information with his/her building families and the district dashboard will be updated.

Once again, I applaud all of our families and staff for your dedication, patience, and flexibility as we continue to navigate our way through this lengthy pandemic. As previously mentioned, BPS will be sending out the second Student Learning Option Commitment Form covering weeks 11-20 tomorrow. This will serve as the opportunity to select your student’s learning program (in-person or virtual) for the next quarter of the school year. If you have any questions regarding this information, please contact me or your student’s principal.

Respectfully,
Carl Shultz, Ph.D
Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools

OCTOBER 4TH UPDATE

October 4, 2020
Dear Bedford Public Schools Parents and Guardians,

I hope that this update finds you and your family healthy and safe. As you know, educational plans around the state of Michigan remain very fluid due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Districts such as Bedford Public Schools have continued to respond as changes in educational mandates occur based upon orders from Governor Whitmer, the Michigan Department of Education, and the Michigan Legislature creating what can only be deemed as a constantly moving target. A clear example of these changes can be found in my September 29, 2020 Superintendent Update, which outlined Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s signed Michigan Executive Order No. 2020-185. This E.O. amended the Michigan Safe Schools Roadmap by requiring that all students in grades K-12 wear facial masks all day including inside the classroom. The update went on to describe how BPS would begin to implement these changes for grades K-5 in order to be in compliance.

Fast forward to late afternoon Friday, October 2nd, when the Michigan Supreme Court issued a decision that Governor Gretchen Whitmer did not possess authority under the Emergency Management Act to declare a state of emergency based on the COVID-19 pandemic after April 30, 2020. As a result, the Court concluded that "the executive orders issued by the Governor in response to the COVID-19 pandemic lack any basis under Michigan law." Soon after the decision was announced, Governor Whitmer issued a statement noting “that this ruling does not take effect for at least 21 days, and until then, my emergency declaration and orders retain the force of law.” It’s only natural to be asking what this news means for BPS operations since our district and state Return to Learning Plan is based on executive orders that were issued well after April 30th (many of the mandates within these orders have since been written into law by our state legislature).

It is our district stance that it is not fair to our parents and students who made their decision for in-person school or remote learning, based on those orders, to change the procedures based upon a newly revised executive order that was issued without authority according to Friday’s State of Michigan Supreme Court Ruling. Therefore, for the safety of our students and staff, and in an attempt to maintain some resemblance of consistency, Bedford Public Schools will not be altering the health and safety protocols as written in our approved district Return to Learning Plan, which is posted on our school district’s website. To be crystal clear, facial masks and all other student and staff health and safety mitigation activities will remain in effect exactly as they have been since the start of the school year without revision until further notice.

There will certainly be additional information coming from Lansing in the near future as our Legislature and Governor work to create what I hope will be a new policy that maintains a safe, productive, and consistent learning environment for all moving forward.

Thank you for your continued patience as we work our way through this pandemic together.

Respectfully,
Carl Shultz, Ph.D
Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools

ORIGINAL LETTER

September 29, 2020
Dear Bedford Public Schools Parents/Guardians,

On Friday afternoon, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed Michigan Executive Order No. 2020-185 as an Amendment to the Provision of pre-K–12 education for the 2020–2021 school year order. This newly adopted executive order has two important changes that must be implemented by all Michigan school districts no later than Monday, October 5, 2020.

The first section of this newly adopted order expands the state-mandated requirement to wear a facial mask in the classroom to all students in grades kindergarten and up. Currently, Bedford Public Schools has been following our published Return to Learning Plan which requires all students in grades 6-12 to wear facial masks anytime the student is utilizing district transportation, inside of the school building hallways and gathering areas, and when in inside of the classroom learning environment. Students in grades K-5 have been wearing facial masks when utilizing district transportation and when inside of the school building hallways and gathering areas. However, following previous State of Michigan Safe Schools Roadmap criterion, elementary students are currently not mandated to wear a facial mask when inside of the classroom learning environment (although some students have maintained mask wearing at all times as a personal/family preference).

The second section of the executive order relates to district communication and tracking of COVID-19 related data. The EO states that “School districts and nonpublic schools must publish information about any cases of a probable or confirmed COVID-19 positive individual present on school property or at a school function during the period of infection.” As shared in last Friday’s Superintendent Update, Bedford Public Schools has already created a comprehensive COVID-19 Dashboard for the purpose of sharing timely and accurate COVID-19 related data within all buildings. The district will continue to update this information daily.

The district began planning for the 2020-2021 school year utilizing the theme of flexibility. It appears that this theme will be continuing throughout the remainder of the year. District elementary schools will begin slowly transitioning to this newly mandated change in facial mask policy so that we don’t have an abrupt change on October 5th. Your child’s building principal will be releasing information regarding this transition in their next communication home. I can assure all parents that students in grades K-5 will have opportunities throughout each day to take mask breaks at appropriate times. If you have any questions regarding the updated facial mask requirements, please contact your child’s building principal.

Respectfully,
Carl Shultz, Ph.D
Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools

CLARIFICATION FOR YOUNG FIVES: Young 5s is considered kindergarten by the State of Michigan in regards to classification and therefore is included in this Executive Order. Our teaching staff and building principals will ensure that adequate breaks from wearing masks for all elementary level students are included throughout the day.


SUPERINTENDENT'S UPDATE

September 25, 2020
Dear BPS Parents/Guardians,

As our third week of the 2020-2021 school year draws to an end, I wanted to share some district updates and reminders with all of you. As you are aware based on my letter from last week, BPS experienced our first positive case of COVID-19 associated with in-person learning. District leadership received confirmation late yesterday evening that BPS has a second confirmed positive COVID-19 case (Bedford High School). Following district and Monroe County Health Department (MCHD) protocols, all necessary contact tracing and appropriate communications are complete. This is not a surprise to our partnering health department experts or myself as we clearly understand that even with the strongest possible mitigation strategies in place, COVID-19 cases will be inevitable. The district’s ability to quickly isolate these cases will be the difference between being able to maintain our current schedule and having to revert to a full virtual learning model. The district remains committed to maintaining the current available learning options as long as collected data and the MCHD agrees with our current program options. We are asking for our families’ full cooperation to ensure that we are able to do so.

In order to strengthen our school-to-home partnership, we have developed an easy to use at-home parent COVID-19 Screening Tool that should be used each morning before students leave the house. The tool is linked above and is available on our district’s website. In addition, Bedford Public Schools has created a new COVID-19 Dashboard for providing relevant COVID-19 case information within the district that will be updated as confirmed information is received. We will continue to share information districtwide as needed utilizing this dashboard as a primary method for sharing updated COVID-19 information instead of sending a letter home each time there is a positive case in one of our classrooms/buildings. Of course, individual students or staff who have been deemed a close contact through district and Monroe Health Department contact tracing will continue to be contacted immediately as necessary.

I know that COVID-19 seems to be the general topic coming out of my office these days; however, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention how amazing our students and staff have performed over these first few weeks. Any challenges (and there have been many) laid before us have been met with positive attitudes and Kicking Mule tenacity. Moving forward, the district will be sending out our second student learning commitment survey during week five to ensure that building leadership and transportation have enough time to make necessary adjustments based upon student selections. This survey will be for the second quarter of learning (weeks 11-20). Please contact your child’s building principal if you have any questions once you have received the survey.

Thank you to everyone for demonstrating patience and kindness as we collectively move forward in this “different” yet successful school year!

Sincerely,
Carl Shultz, PhD
Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools
(734) 850-6002


COVID-19 CASE NOTIFICATION

September 15, 2020
Dear Bedford Public Schools Parents/Guardians,

Bedford Public Schools commitment to timely and transparent communication is paramount to our goal of further strengthening our partnership between school and home. Therefore, I am writing today to share that our district’s first confirmed in-person case of coronavirus (COVID-19) has been identified at Bedford Junior High School. We are working closely with the Monroe County Health Department to identify exposures and prevent further cases. At this time, close contacts with this exposure have been notified separately, following local health department protocol, and instructed to self-quarantine.

This letter is informational only; no further action is required for your student at this time.

As a precaution, we will be completing additional disinfection of areas of the school building and applicable transportation equipment. This may include spraying classrooms, hallways, locker rooms, and common areas as needed with an electrostatic disinfectant sprayer, wiping down hard surface areas, and employing other methods to help ensure a safe learning environment.

The virus that causes COVID-19 is thought to spread mainly from person to person, through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Spread is more likely when people are less than 6 feet from each other for at least 15 minutes. A person who is a close contact of someone who is infected with COVID-19 may experience COVID-19 symptoms typically within 2 to 14 days after a person is exposed.

The symptoms of COVID-19 are similar in children and adults. Symptoms can include:
Fever (>100.4 F), cough, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, runny or stuffy nose, loss of taste or smell, abdominal pain.

There are many things that can be done to keep our schools, homes, and communities “COVID-19 free” and protect ourselves and loved ones:

1. Children and adults should stay home when ill.
2. Washing hands often with soap and running warm water for at least 20 seconds.
3. If a hand washing station is not available, use hand sanitizer properly. Gels, rubs, and hand wipes must contain at least 60% alcohol. Dispose of wipes in the trash after use.
4. Practice Good Respiratory Etiquette (cover a cough with elbow versus hand).
5. Follow guidance for wearing a face covering and social distancing.

For more information regarding COVID-19, or you have questions, please contact the Monroe County Health Department at
(734) 240-7860.

Respectfully,
Dr. Carl Shultz,
Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools


BPS STUDENT LEARNING OPTION COMMITMENT FORM LINK

Dear BPS Families,

It was nearly a month ago when I wrote to share the state's newly published MI Safe Schools Return to Schools Roadmap. At that time, I asked for your patience and offered the opportunity for community participation as our district leaders began to design our own local district plan. Fast forward to the August 6th Board of Education Meeting, I was blessed as your superintendent to be able to present the fruits of our collective labor in the form of the BPS Return to Learning Plan. The Return to Learning Task Force included input from students, parents, staff, administration, health care professionals, county health department leaders, and the Board of Education. Our district plan is truly a collaborative effort!

Please know how grateful Bedford Public Schools is that you have placed your trust in us to educate and care for your children. We do not take your trust for granted, nor do we take our obligation lightly. Thank you for your candid feedback over the past five months as it has helped to form our current and future direction through this unparalleled time in education.

The Bedford Return to Learning Plan was unanimously approved at last evening's BOE Meeting. As the district continues to answer the many questions being asked, we are also at the stage of our plan that requires BPS parents to commit your students to one of the two flexible learning options that will be offered this fall. In order to assist in making an informed decision for each of your individual students, please refer to these two separate, but very much aligned documents, below which provide a great deal of information regarding each option:

RETURN TO LEARN GUIDE
RETURN TO LEARN PLAN FAQs

District leadership will continue to partner with our stakeholder groups to further answer additional questions and to provide more information as we get closer to the start of the 2020-2021 school year.

Once you feel that you are ready to compete the Student Learning Option Commitment Form (link below), please click on the Google Form link and submit a form for each individual student within your family (ie. three enrolled students will require one separate form completion for each). We are asking that families submit their Student Learning Option Commitment Forms by the end of the day on Wednesday, August 12, 2020.

Sincerely,
Dr. Carl Shultz
Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools

Posted: August 8, 2020


The Bedford Public Schools Board of Education approved a plan for returning to school at the August 6th meeting. It offers families two choices for learning while we are in Phase 4 currently: an in-person learning option to run Monday-Friday OR a completely virtual option with access to live, interactive lessons from Bedford teachers following the same schedule. All instructional materials for either option will be included in Schoology to be accessible at any time. The school day will be shortened by 90 minutes for both options.

More details on each plan are included in this UPDATED "RETURN TO LEARN OUTLINE" PRESENTATION from the August 6, 2020 Board Meeting.

We realize that there are many, many questions. We have put together this RETURN TO LEARN PLAN FAQs document. Some questions we are awaiting more information on before we can answer them. There are a few that are still in the process of being answered and will be added in soon. You may have read it and did not see what you might be wondering about. Please use the following link to submit any other questions you have: LINK TO SUBMIT A QUESTION: https://forms.gle/cnpbdq5iCvNUUHA48

Additional Reference: RETURN TO LEARN GUIDE

Updated: August 7, 2020


LETTER FROM SUPERINTENDENT ON RETURNING TO SCHOOL

July 2, 2020

Dear Bedford Public Schools Parents,

I have received many messages from our families asking what the 2020-2021 school year will look like as our state and nation continue to battle the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Like many of you, I am disappointed and confused with the way that the 2019-2020 school year ended. As an educator and father, I found myself constantly searching for additional information in the form of updates during the prolonged closure. If this is how a school superintendent felt, I can only imagine how the uncertainty must have felt for our thousands of parents within the BPS Community. While I cannot provide all of the details regarding the upcoming school year, I am pleased to share that Governor Whitmer has released the outline that will guide our educational delivery for the upcoming year and perhaps beyond.

On June 30, 2020, Governor Gretchen Whitmer released the MI Safe Schools Return to Schools Roadmap, a 63-page document with comprehensive guidance to help local school districts create plans for learning this fall based on the stage of the region where the district is located (Bedford is located in Region 1 and we are, at the time of this letter, in stage 4). Additionally, Ms. Whitmer announced the signing of Executive Order 2020-142 which provides guidance on developing “Preparedness Plans.” With the release of the Return to Schools Roadmap, BPS can now effectively and efficiently create our district’s plan for the upcoming school year. As I have stated from the beginning of the mandated school closure last March, BPS administration and staff want nothing more than to safely have our students back in our buildings. Our district plan will focus on this premise as our top priority while maintaining state-mandated precautions and reviewing all recommended precautionary action steps to best fit our students, staff, and facilities.

Beginning this week, BPS Administration will work closely with our local and county health officials as we construct a viable plan for our students to return to their buildings. The district will establish committees comprised of different stakeholders to create this comprehensive return to learning plan. Each committee chair will work with their team to create a plan that does not just sound great, but one that combines strong instructional practices, quality learning experiences regardless of setting, and practicality in its implementation for all impacted. In order to achieve this goal, committees will be seeking feedback from staff members and parents as they build each component of the plan. Our belief is that by following the guidelines provided within the Roadmap, we will be able to keep students, staff, and families safer in our schools and achieve the type of learning outcomes that we’ve consistently achieved. This is no small task and will take some time to develop thoughtfully. Please be assured that we will release the plan as soon as we are able. In the meantime, as some helpful first steps in developing an understanding of the guidelines we will be following, please consider reading Michigan’s 2020-21 Return to School Roadmap FAQ as well as the full documents linked above. These documents will set the parameters that will guide the creation of our district plan and can help families understand how and why we are making decisions.

I appreciate your time in reading this and staying informed throughout all of the changes 2020 has thrown our way. I look forward to sharing additional updates as they become available.

Respectfully,
Carl Shultz, Ph.D
Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools

EXECUTIVE ORDER No. 2020-142: Provision of PreK–12 education for the 2020–2021 school year
Michigan’s 2020- 21 Return to School Roadmap (Full Document)
Michigan’s 2020-21 Return to School Roadmap FAQ


UPDATE LETTER FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

May 16, 2020
Dear BPS Community,

It has been over a month since my last district update after what started out as a flurry of early spring update emails. I felt that it was best to provide some time for our district-wide plans to be implemented and for families to begin receiving updates from our building leaders and classroom teachers. In a time of incredible uncertainty and difficult circumstances, I must once again thank all of our BPS family members for not just doing your part, but also for the high-level at which all of you have performed during the COVID-19 Crisis. This praise is meant for every single member of our district and supportive community. Our students who have endured what has now amounted to the loss of months of educational experiences, ceremonies, contests, and celebrations. Our parents and grandparents who have assumed the roles of instructional facilitator, coach, and cheerleader. Finally, our staff members across the district who have come together to do everything that they can to try to reinvent our student services. Thank you all for reminding me what can be accomplished when incredible people work together.

As a district, we have continued to support our students and families through our BPS Learn at Home Program. We understand that while not perfect, we are very pleased with the high percentage of students who continue to be engaged in their learning. In addition to ongoing learning, BPS is providing our students and community with breakfast and lunches throughout the week. In total, BPS’s dedicated food service staff (with the assistance of transportation department volunteers) have served over 62,000 meals to our community since the mandated school closure on March 13th. While these examples serve as our current situation’s most visible services, the remainder of our staff including administrators, custodial, and clerical have been hard at work preparing for the remainder of this current school year and the potential variations of what next year may look like for the district. At this point, I can share with you what our district plans look like as of today and provide some potential outlook for our future as we wait for additional guidance from the State of Michigan.

REMAINDER OF THE 2019-2020 SCHOOL YEAR
STUDENT LEARNING
All BPS Students will continue their educational learning utilizing the district Learn at Home Plan through June 10, 2020. The schedule remains unchanged and building principals and teachers will provide continual updates relating to learning, district/personal material collection, and any other important information that will be needed to wrap-up the current school year. It remains extremely important that students continue to engage in this plan to ensure that academic credit is earned and that continual growth is taking place.

DISTRICT FOOD SERVICE
As previously mentioned, BPS Food Service has continued to serve our community throughout the closure. The Food Service Program’s last day for 2019-2020 service is currently scheduled for Monday, June 8, 2020. Bedford Public Schools does not qualify for summer food service grants and has traditionally not been able to provide service throughout the summer months. Until the June 8th closing date, we will continue our current schedule of drive-up food service on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. The only exception to this schedule will be that no service will be provided on Monday, May 25, 2020 in observance of the Memorial Day Holiday.

CLASS OF 2020 GRADUATES
The Class of 2020 have felt the effects of COVID-19 as much as any group (excluding those who have lost family and friends to the virus). I can speak for the entire Kicking Mule family when I say that we have missed seeing you experience what you have worked so hard to earn. BPS remains committed to exhausting our options for providing the best allowable opportunities to celebrate your accomplishments. The originally scheduled June 7th Class of 2020 Commencement Ceremony has been rescheduled for Tuesday, July 28th. If the State of Ohio and/or University of Toledo are not permitting large scale events on this date, we will look to transition to holding a ceremony or multiple smaller ceremonies at Bedford High School or Indian Creek (depending on district bond work progress) that follow state orders and support community safety. If it becomes evident that we will not be able to hold any type of in-person commencement, we would review options for a virtual event. The Senior Sendoff Parent Group have started to plan for an alternate event for our seniors and they will announce plans as soon as they are complete. We love our seniors and will do everything that we can to provide the best possible alternatives to recognizing their accomplishments. Stay tuned for additional information as we continue to move forward.

2020-2021 SCHOOL YEAR
SCHOOL SETTING
There are so many unknowns as I write this update. The Michigan Department of Education has given local districts direction to begin preparing for a number of possible learning scenarios for next school year. These scenarios include returning to the traditional in-classroom school setting, continuing a learn-at-home type instructional program, or some type of hybrid learning program that could include students alternating between traditional in-classroom learning on some days and learning from home on other days to help limit the number of students on campus at one time. Of course, our preference and hope is that we are safe to return to our traditional learning programs so that we can have students back in our buildings. BPS will meet the challenges set before us regardless of the State of Michigan orders and we have already began reviewing what we can do to ensure the best possible experiences for our students. I will provide updated information as soon as it becomes available.

STUDENT REGISTRATION
BPS will once again begin registering new students in the upcoming week. It is imperative for district planning to get a strong grasp of our student count to ensure adequate staffing and space. The registration process will look a little different from the past as we incorporate social distancing practices to ensure community and staff safety. We will be sharing updated dates and times as well as the process for completing new student registration very soon via email, district website, and social media.

SCHOOL FUNDING
OVERVIEW
(Warning, I am about to bore some of you with my background in teaching economics, but this background in school finance and current information is extremely important) In 1994, Michigan voters approved the controversial passing of State Ballot Proposal A, which included a major overhaul of public school funding. Until Proposal A was enacted, local public school districts were funded primarily through assessing property tax levies on the residents of the communities that they supported. Proposal A changed the public school funding system by limiting the amount and purposes for which a local district can ask for property tax levies. Instead of relying on local property taxes, Proposal A created a new complex formula that combined revenue from the rolled back local millage or tax rates (a new flat 6-mill statewide education property tax was instituted) with money from the newly created state school tax (state sales tax increased from 4 to 6 percent), other tax hikes (increases tax rates on fuel, real estate purchases, and tobacco), and finally, yes, the ever so popular Michigan lottery income (actually represents a very small portion of the state’s total school aid fund) to maintain the state school aid fund.

This new system created a statewide, economy-driven per-pupil foundation allowance which has become the basis for how school districts receive operational funding today. As an example, Bedford Public Schools received a state per-pupil foundation allowance of $8,111 for the 2019-2020 school year. This foundation allowance is then multiplied by the total number of students enrolled for the school year to come up with the total amount that BPS will receive from the state school aid fund, providing 85% of our district’s total revenue. The other 15% is made up of non-homestead tax levies (rental or commercial properties), state and federal grants (BPS receives very little in these grants due to the lower-than-average free/reduced lunch rate of the district), countywide technology millage, and other miscellaneous sources.

Overall, Proposal A is considered a success in achieving some of its initial goals of overhauling the local property tax system and narrowing the gap that exists throughout the state in school funding averages. However, the system is extremely reliant upon the State of Michigan’s economy. As you can imagine, COVID-19 and the related Stay Home, Stay Safe orders that have closed much of the state’s economy for the better part of the last sixty days have devastated our economic system. The closure or limiting of services for most retail stores, food and beverage establishments, real estate and car sales offices, and reduced overall fuel purchases have significantly reduced the expected revenue for both the adopted current fiscal year budget and the upcoming fiscal year budget. These significant drops in incoming revenue will absolutely result in a devastating effect to public education across the state.

CURRENT SCHOOL FUNDING CRISIS
The State of Michigan held their Spring Consensus Revenue Estimating Conference (CREC) on Friday, May 15th. The CREC is where the state department of treasury and economists from the University of Michigan work to determine the state’s overall financial status for the current year and the upcoming years. This data is then used to finalize and formulate state budgets (including school aid fund). As expected, the conference report was not good news for public education. State officials and economists presented that shutdown as a result of COVID-19 has dropped state sales and income tax revenues to numbers we have not seen since 1946. Big Picture: state overall revenue's loss between this year and the next fiscal year is $6.28 billion over anticipated revenue just as recently as this January. The School Aid Fund is significantly out of balance for the current fiscal year, the next fiscal year, and the following year. For fiscal year 2020 (current school year), the deficit is $1.1 billion, for fiscal year 2021 (next school year), the deficit is $963 million, and for fiscal year 2022, the deficit is $334 million.

To put these numbers in perspective, an overall deficit of $1.1 billion to the state school aid fund equates to an average reduction of $900 per-pupil to each local district for the current 2019-2020 school year. However, legislation guiding the State of Michigan School Aid Fund provides guidance for how any required statewide proration of school funding would be implemented and thus limits the possible reduction or proration for the current year to between $650-$700 per pupil or an unimaginable amount of $2.9 million for BPS. Regardless, these numbers are staggering and have never before been seen by public schools in this state. The effect of any reduction to school funding while preparing for an upcoming school year is extremely challenging. A potential reduction of this size for the current school year and next is devastating. The only positives at this moment is that these numbers, while real, represent the situation based on the current adopted state budget. They do not take into account any budgetary adjustments made by the state, nor do they account for any potential federal funds that can be made available to public schools across the nation. These variables, along with other potential legislative and executive actions, could help alleviate a portion of the current deficit to the school aid fund.

While the district has a currently adopted and fiscally sound budget for the 2019-2020 school year based on original adopted state school aid allocations, this new data, along with recent warnings from the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) regarding a potential budget proration for all districts for the remainder of this year, has necessitated the creation of a multi-tiered response to this financial crisis. All district department and building leaders have been engaged in an emergency review process to identify potential budgetary reductions. This process will continue to carry through our district’s creation of the upcoming 2020-2021 district budget as well. As superintendent, I am charged to bring forward the best possible solutions for maintaining a balanced district budget while also maintaining the integrity of our community’s high educational expectations. I understand that none of us have created this health crisis and its associated financial strife. Regardless, we must all do everything in our power to ensure that the students of our community remain as shielded as possible in order to continue our long tradition of student success. To this end, I am asking all of you to reach out to the offices of our state governor, local state representatives, and federal representatives to ensure they take every possible action necessary to reduce the impact on our students in public education. I have spoken with our local representatives and they clearly understand the position of our district and support our efforts. Please make sure that our governor and federal representatives do as well!

DISTRICT BOND WORK
After typing the previous section on the school financial crisis, I am much happier to be able to share information regarding the district bond projects. As of May 7th, there has been an incredible amount of work begun on the planned summer of 2020 bond projects. This summer’s projects include work at Bedford High School (new windows and exterior doors in the original section of building, replacement of all heating units with heat and cooling units in all instructional classrooms, the creation of a new safe entryway at the front of the building, new fire alarm and clock systems, new security/remote access systems, new main gym bleachers and refinished floor, fully updated restrooms throughout the building, and a newly designed parking lot/student drop-off area to serve the entire secondary campus shared by both BHS/BJHS). The other building that is undergoing major renovations this summer is Jackman Road Elementary (new windows and exterior doors, replacement of all heating units with heat and cooling units in all instructional classrooms, new security/remote access systems, updated restrooms throughout the building, and a newly designed parking lot which includes an extended parent drop-off loop to hold more vehicles). In addition, there will be roof replacement work completed at Douglas Road Elementary, Jackman Road Elementary, and Bedford Junior High School.

The district bond that was passed in November of 2018 has made all of these exciting projects possible. Bond Proposals such as ours, are one of the few remaining opportunities that communities can still directly support their local public school districts through local tax levies (of course you all knew this after reading and taking notes on my previous section on Proposal A). All associated funds collected by the passed bond levy are mandated to be used for the sole stated purpose of the bond, and thus, cannot be redirected or affected by state funding issues, so rest assured that we will finish what you have entrusted us to accomplish. The remainder of the bond projects at our other buildings will be completed during the summer of 2021. Once again, I speak for our entire district in thanking all of our dedicated community members who supported this bond proposal and am proud that we are currently on schedule and on budget to complete all projects within the district.

FINAL THOUGHTS
I am once more forced to apologize for yet another lengthy letter regarding our district. I could effectively write shorter district updates, but I truly believe that in order to be effective advocates for your children and for our district, you deserve the greatest level of detail possible. Bedford Public Schools is, and will remain, a special place. Our students, our staff, and our supportive community ensure that we maintain our position as one of the top districts in the state. District leadership will be forced to make tough decisions over the course of the next few years to appropriately deal with the impending state budget reductions (please remember to reach out to our government representatives that we have entrusted to support our community to voice your concerns). I can promise that we will stubbornly (as would any Kicking Mule) fight for every available dollar from any and all potential funds that can better support our students. We need to keep our heads up and continue to be a unified district in the presence of adversity. We have so much to be grateful for as a community and this should be a time to celebrate our students and not get down due to events outside of our control. Thank you to all of you for everything that you do; it reminds me daily of why I’m proud to be a Mule!

Respectfully,
Carl Shultz, Ph.D
Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools
734-850-6001 Office


FAMILIES ELIGIBLE FOR FREE/REDUCED SCHOOL MEALS TO GET PANDEMIC EBT PROGRAM BENEFITS

The Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer Program (P-EBT) provides temporary funding to address emergency food needs for families affected by the pandemic. P-EBT food assistance benefits will go to families with students ages 5-18 that are eligible for free or reduced-price school meals. This includes families currently receiving Food Assistance Program benefits as well as those not currently enrolled in the program.

FAMILIES CURRENTLY RECEIVING FOOD ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (FAP) BENEFITS WILL AUTOMATICALLY RECEIVE BENEFITS

Additional benefits will be issued directly to your Bridge Card and can be used in the same way to purchase food items. P-EBT benefits can also be used in the Double Up Food Bucks program.

March and April combines benefits: $193.80 per eligible student will be loaded on the family's Bridge Card by the end of April.

May and June combined benefits: $182.40 per eligible student will be loaded on the family's Bridge Card at a later date yet to be determined.

ELIGIBLE FAMILIES NOT CURRENTLY RECEIVING FOOD ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (FAP) BENEFITS CAN ALSO PARTICIPATE IN PROGRAM

Q. We recently lost our job or took a significant loss in income. What should I do to receive the benefit?
A: Please reach out to your local school/district to learn how to complete an application for Free and Reduced Price School Meals. Your child’s school/district will have to report the change in Free and Reduced-Price Meal eligibility to the state of Michigan to make you eligible for P-EBT.

How to apply for Bedford Public Schools' Free and Reduced School Meals:
Applications for free/reduced meals for 2019-2020 are available online at: https://www.lunchapp.com/
Applications can be printed using this link: http://www.bedford.k12.mi.us/files/2019-20-Free_and_Reduced-price_application.pdf
Applications will also be available at the MRE and BHS "Drive Thru" pickups. Completed applications can also be returned at these locations as well.

Then register on MI Bridges to get the EBT process started: https://newmibridges.michigan.gov/
Eligible families not currently receiving food assistance benefits will receive a pre-loaded Electronic Benefits Transaction (EBT) card in the mail. It will be issued under the name of the oldest student in the household. Benefits for all eligible school-aged children in the home will be loaded onto this one EBT card. Families will also be getting a letter from MDHHS describing how to use their EBT card, how to set up their PIN, and other information about food assistance benefits. This EBT card can be used to purchase food items only, in-person, at any SNAP retailer. The P-EBT card may look different from the Bridge Card but can be used in the same way.

March and April combines benefits: Families will receive an EBT card in the mail pre-loaded with $193.80 per eligible student by the end of the first week in May. Please keep this card to use for ongoing benefits you may receive.

May and June combined benefits: $182.40 per eligible student will be loaded on the family's EBT card at a later date yet to be determined.

If you have any questions about this Pandemic EBT Program, please refer to these online resources:

Pandemic EBT Program

MDE Office of Health & Nutrition Services Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer Program (P-EBT) Frequently asked Questions
Or call: 1-833-905-0028

Posted: April 29, 2020


BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING UPDATES

Committee of the Whole Meeting scheduled for Thursday, April 30th is cancelled.

The regular Board of Education Meeting scheduled for Thursday, May 7th, will be held virtually. Details for the meeting's virtual link will be released closer to the date of that meeting.

Posted: April 27, 2020


AT-HOME LEARNING PLAN INFORMATION

Our Continuity in Learning Plan has been approved. Dr. Mark French, Assistant Superintendent of Instruction and Student Services, has emailed families with a Letter and Overview of our At-Home Learning Plan. Building principals will also be sending more detailed information specific to their schools home as well.

Posted: April 14, 2020


BPS CONTINUITY OF LEARNING PLAN APPROVED

The Continuity of Learning Plan for Bedford Public Schools was approved. District and School Administrators will be sharing more information in the days to come.

Posted: April 13, 2020


LETTER FROM SUPERINTENDENT ON "LEARN AT HOME" PLAN

April 3, 2020
Dear BPS Families,

As I shared with all of you yesterday in my brief email, Governor Whitmer’s signing of Michigan Executive Order 2020-35 immediately suspends face-to-face learning in all K-12 Schools for the remainder of the current school year. While this is an unprecedented event for our state, I believe that for the safety of our students and staff, it was needed for our district to be able to move forward. By signing this latest Executive Order, Governor Whitmer has also made it possible for Michigan Public Schools to transition from our traditional mode of in-classroom learning to a newly allowable and flexible “Learn at Home” instructional model. Bedford Public Schools will now have the opportunity to create and submit a continuity of education plan that will allow the district to continue providing educational services to our families for the remainder of the year. This plan, which must be approved by Monroe Intermediate School District (MISD) and the Michigan Department of Education (MDE), will outline our plan for at-home learning, continued food service programs, and the continuation of any additional services that we currently hope to offer. Once approved, BPS will be able to once again provide educational instruction for state-approved credit for all grade levels.

The submitted BPS Continuity of Education Plan will focus on engaging ALL students in their personalized learning and academic growth, providing families with consistent support and guidance, and offering flexibility for staff and students to overcome the inherent challenges of at-home learning. Student participation in the learn-at-home instructional program is mandatory for all students and failure to engage in the learning process can/will lead to a loss of academic credit toward graduation or grade-level progression. Myself, and the district leadership team fully understand that there will be an exorbitant amount of potential obstacles in seamlessly implementing any new plan. This means that timely communication to teaching staff and building administration will be key in helping our team to better understand your needs and challenges. BPS has been successfully engaged in utilizing state-of-the-art educational technology and digital learning resources for a number of years. Each grade-level will look different in our plan but there will be consistency and support to assist students and families along the way. The district began creating a version of our plan in the early stages of the current closure in case our state elected to move in this direction. We feel that based on initial feedback, our plan will be ready for initial submission based on the finalized Executive Order by the middle of next week. Once approved, our district goal would then be to begin plan implementation the following week (tentatively around April 16th). We will, of course, keep everyone up-to-date on our progress as we navigate through this approval process.

Finally, we are continuously working to keep our families informed throughout this process and have created a new FAQs based on the questions from last evening's District Zoom Update and Discussion as well as emails and other sources. If you do not see a topic that you are searching for answers on, please email building administration, department/program directors, or myself. As always, I am asking our families to rely on official district information channels to get accurate and timely answers to your questions.

Thank you and I wish all of you a safe and hopefully relaxing weekend.

Dr. Carl Shultz
Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools
734-850-6001 Office


3RD GRADE CHROMEBOOK DISTRIBUTION

Third grade Chromebook distribution is being implemented. Parents should look at their email or Schoology for further instructions and pick up schedule for their class. If you cannot make the time scheduled, please contact the helpdesk at 734-850-6095 or email [email protected] to explain your situation, and we will do our best to make accommodations so you can schedule an alternate time.

Posted: April 3, 2020


ALL BEDFORD SCHOOL DISTRICT ATHLETIC FACILITIES ARE CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.

All athletic fields, track, and stadiums are now closed for safety and health reasons due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Posted: April 3, 2020


UPDATE ON SCHOOL BUILDING CLOSURE FOR REMAINDER OF SCHOOL YEAR

April 2, 2020
BPS Families,

Please see the recently released State Executive Order that suspends in-person educational delivery for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year. The full order outlines the state's educational outlook, intermediate school district guidelines, and local district requirements. Having seen this order for the first time when it was released statewide, district leadership is working on our BPS response including what to expect as staff members, students, and parents. Please allow time for us to get this together. District leadership has been working on a learn at home plan for our staff and students for several weeks. This plan will need adjustment once we learn all additional information regarding state requirements that must be included for local districts.

I will be sending a district update letter to all families tomorrow with more information regarding learn at home timelines and how BPS will continue to support our students and families throughout the remainder of the year and beyond. Please be patient and know that we are working to ensure an accurate, comprehensive, and sustainable plan for our district. We will not be ready to share the finalized plan until it has been reviewed/approved by both the Monroe Intermediate School District and the Michigan Department of Education. I will be hosting a Superintendent District Discussion via Zoom this evening at 6:00 pm.

I have held several Zoom Meetings but never one with more than 30 participants, so please be patient if you join me for the discussion as I have set the meeting up to accommodate up to 1,000 guests!
Thank you,

Dr. Carl Shultz
Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools


UPDATE FROM SUPERINTENDENT: END OF 2ND WEEK OF CLOSURE

March 27, 2020
Dear BPS Families,

I hope that this update finds you well-rested and safe. As the second week of the mandatory BPS closure comes to an end, I want to thank all of you for your support and well wishes. While our students and staff may not be inside of our classrooms at this time, I can see from the digital engagement taking place that teaching and learning has not stopped. I can provide very few concrete updates as the leader of the district at this time. I have taken part in countless video and phone conferences over the past two weeks and I can tell you that state and local leadership have not stopped communicating and planning. I can also share that while it has been on many of our minds over the past two weeks, I did hear Governor Whitmer publicly say this morning for the first time that it is “very unlikely” that Michigan’s K-12 schools would reopen this school year.

I want to share my thoughts with our families regarding this potential (seemingly likely) scenario of not being back inside of our buildings for the remainder of the school year. As a parent, a teacher, and as a superintendent, I know that learning does not take place exclusively inside classrooms. While there are several hurdles that our state leadership will need to clear before we can begin a comprehensive learn-at-home instructional plan, I believe that we will get there through collaboration and level-headed decision making. The Department of Education and Governor have engaged leadership from educational groups from around the state to determine how to best move forward for the remainder of this year. I can assure you that whatever plan is placed before our district’s educators, BPS will implement it to the best of our abilities. The Governor indicated during her interview this morning that we should be hearing additional information next week on this topic.

I continue to receive questions regarding why other area districts have already or are soon to begin digital student learning programs. I will not speak for any other districts, but I can tell you that ALL K-12 Michigan Public Schools have received the same information that no digital learning completed at home through ANY means during this initial closure will be counted toward credit or school year completion. This message was reiterated in a received memo last week from the Michigan Department of Education. My review of this topic has shown that districts are starting to use online materials for enrichment. However, these programs are utilizing many of the same options that BPS Students have had access to for the past several years. BPS is and has been ahead of the curve in relation to online opportunities in the State of Michigan.

Additionally, I am proud to share that our district team worked this week to collect all of the classroom supplies (mostly Clorox-style wipes, hand sanitizer, and gloves) that remained inside of our buildings. These items were boxed up and delivered to local first responders throughout the area. Items such as these and other medical supplies continue to be in short supply and our Governor has asked all that can assist to do so. If you check out our district or my personal superintendent Facebook or Twitter accounts, you can see the images of the incredible amount of supplies that BPS and our community were able to share with those in need. Furthermore, BPS Food Service Staff handed out over 7,000 meals this week. These numbers are truly impressive and helped us to decide that we will maintain our current weekly pick-up schedule of Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for the foreseeable future.

Finally, in an attempt to be able to engage in more of your questions, I will be hosting some Zoom Interactive Conversations throughout the next couple of weeks. Please follow me on Facebook or Twitter to find out when the meetings will take place and to get the Zoom digital link. Zoom is an interactive meeting platform that has become very popular over the past month due to the social distancing mandates because of its easy-to-use platform and set-up. I will send out dates, time, and an embedded link using my superintendent social media accounts that you can simply click to join. This will be a great way for students, staff, and community members to engage with myself and other district leaders on topics that you have on your mind.

Thank you all for your support and patience,

Dr. Carl Shultz
Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools
734-850-6001 Office


UPDATE ON GOVERNOR'S "STAY HOME, STAY SAFE" EXECUTIVE ORDER

March 23, 2020
Dear BPS Families,

Good afternoon and I hope that this message finds you and your family safe and healthy. This morning, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed a State of Michigan Executive Order enforcing what she is calling the "Stay Home, Stay Safe" Act. The measure places limits on where individuals may travel and also which businesses may continue to operate for a minimum of three weeks. The Executive Order details essential businesses and organizations that if possible, should maintain services to their communities.

Bedford Public Schools has worked extremely hard to continue vital services for our community throughout the COVID-19 Crisis. One of these vital services is the continuation of our food service program. In fact, through state and federal support, BPS has been able to enhance our program to provide free meals to any individual 18 years and under and students with special needs through age 26. I am extremely proud of our food service department for maintaining our services through the vast number of changes caused by this extremely fluid situation. On Friday, March 20th, I sent an updated Food Service Plan which included the transition from five days per week to three days per week pick-up services to better meet our available resources. I am pleased that as of today, BPS will maintain this current schedule throughout this week as district food support programs have been designated as essential by Governor Whitmer.

District leadership will re-examine our current plan at the end of this week to determine how we can proceed in the upcoming days, weeks, and potentially months. The major challenges that we face in providing this service, is of course the health and safety of our trained district staff members handling the food each day, availability of food supplies, and any other potential shortcomings that may come down the road as we head into this prolonged closure process. BPS is dedicated to our students and our community today more than ever and we will do everything that we can to assist in this increasingly difficult time.

For your reference:

Copy of the Executive Order
Copy of 1-Page Summary of the Executive Order

Thank you for your support and patience,

Dr. Carl Shultz
Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools


LETTER FROM SUPERINTENDENT ABOUT MDE DECISION REGARDING ONLINE LEARNING DURING MANDATED CLOSURE

March 20, 2020
Dear Parents/Guardians,

I wanted to provide our BPS Families with a memo that the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) released earlier this morning. The memo states that any instructional time completed during the school closure would not be counted toward 2019-2020 academic progress in accordance with State of Michigan Law. I want to reiterate that this is the reason that BPS has not required new instructional lessons and/or student assignments to be completed throughout the closure. However, this memo does not speak to the importance of students remaining engaged in their personal learning by practicing their previously learned skills. These activities can include logging into district-sponsored learning programs, reading age/grade-level appropriate materials, and practicing math, science, arts related skills.

MDE sent the memo in response to the many questions that they have been fielding related to districts being able to transition to online learn-at-home programs during the mandated closure. As superintendent, this memo or its content does not at all surprise me, as we were well aware that our state requires learning to take place inside of our classrooms for traditional K-12 Public Schools. However, please do not read anything into the memo in regards to the potential forgiveness of days missed due to the mandatory state closure. It is the Michigan Legislature and Governor that will need to take action to reduce or eliminate instructional time that has been lost due to our current crisis. The Legislature has already discussed potential action and will continue to do so as the crisis continues. As of today, the district does not have any final answers regarding the remainder of the school year outside of the current closure schedule, which would end for BPS on Monday, April 13th (due to scheduled spring break). Please be patient and know that we are working and fighting daily for our state to take appropriate action to keep our students, staff, and community safe.

Finally, I understand that our closure has placed many traditional events in jeopardy this spring. As a district, while we are fighting to continue to provide key services to our students and community, we have not lost sight of the additional things that matter for our families. As we progress through these troubling and unprecedented times, we will be working to brainstorm how we can make the remainder of this year special for our students that have earned it no matter what the adjusted calendar ends up being. Be safe, be productive, and most of all be kind, Mules!

Sincerely,
Dr. Carl Shultz
Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools


INTERNET ACCESS SURVEY

District administrators have been working with Buckeye Broadband to ensure that qualifying families can receive free basic home internet service so that students can continue to be engaged in their learning.

As previously described in my most recent family update, the State of Michigan does not provide opportunities for districts to transition to learn at home instruction like some of our neighboring states in times of emergency/crisis. This means that while BPS and our teachers continue to share learning resources with our students/families, there are no mandatory assignments and or assessments taking place during the closure.

If the mandatory closure is extended by the state, there is a possibility that state law could be amended to allow for transition to home instruction.

The survey link below is for families that do not currently have home internet access and would like to see if they qualify for free basic service through Buckeye Broadband.

Please feel free to share the link with any BPS students that you know may require such service.

Survey Link: https://forms.gle/fYHWuxMQvDQDNBc66

Posted: March 19, 2020


MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES FOR COPING WITH COVID-19 CRISIS

The coronavirus has drastically changed life in so many ways over the last few weeks and that impact will be with us for some time to come. That can take a toll on our mental health, too.

Mr. Hurley used Schoology to share some information from our BJHS counselors to help support our families. Here are links to the resources they recommend:

FOR STUDENTS:
18 Coping Skills and Activities for Children and Teens
Self-care and Mental Health

FOR FAMILIES:
Supporting Kids During the COVID-19 Crisis
Coping During COVID-19: Resources for Parents
Mental Health and Coping During COVID-19
Helping Kids Who Are Worried About Coronavirus

Posted: March 19, 2020


UPDATE FROM SUPERINTENDENT ON COMMON CLOSURE QUESTIONS

March 17, 2020
Dear BPS Families,

Bedford Public Schools remains committed to ensuring that our families have the information and resources available to successfully manage this extraordinary and historic school closure. I would like to thank all of our family members that have reached out to offer support and volunteer service. As I have often stated, BPS employs some of the most dedicated and professional staff anywhere in this county. As of today, our district has the capacity to maintain our technology and food service programs that will continue supporting our community. If there becomes a need to seek volunteers to assist in our available programs, I will reach out to those that have contacted me and other district leaders.

Over the past week, I have received several inquiries regarding our district’s plan for not immediately beginning at-home learning while under mandatory state closure. There are several factors that come into play when considering the district’s learning plan in our current closure and any potential additional closures. The State of Michigan Public School Aid Act requires that all public schools within the state “shall provide at least 1,098 hours and 180 days of pupil instruction” each school year. This requirement does not have any variance for transitioning to online or virtual learning throughout the year based on emergency related cancellations. I understand that many of our families have relatives and friends in our neighboring state to our south. The State of Ohio does have a law whereby districts can utilize “web access type learning” whenever emergency cancellations are necessary. Many refer to this law as the “blizzard bag” or “backpack” law. There are many differences between our two states and the laws that govern our citizens and this just happens to be one of the laws that community members are not typically aware of. The other question that I have received over the past few days is concerning why other districts are sending homework and BPS is not. The truth is that the districts that are sending work home are predominately sending students practice activities and skill-building materials which our students already have access to through our web-based instructional programs.

While I cannot tell the future, I can share that our district leadership team is preparing for a worst-case scenario, which could have students at home for an extended period well beyond the initial three week closure. In the event that an extended closure is mandated, BPS will be ready to immediately transition to a web-based learning program if allowable by the state legislature and Michigan Department of Education. I can tell you that this will look different from what students and families are familiar with, but we believe that we can be effective in this mode of instruction. My incredible leadership team and I are keeping up-to-date with communication at both the local and state level and we will share information as it becomes available.

Thank you all for your patience and dedication to our community. Please be safe and know that we are here to support you in any way that we can.
Dr. Carl Shultz
Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools
734-850-6001


FOOD ASSISTANCE OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

BEDFORD PUBLIC SCHOOLS "DRIVE THRU"
FOOD ASSISTANCE HAS CONCLUDED FOR THE SCHOOL YEAR

Our Drive Thru Food Pickups have concluded for this school year. A huge round of applause for the efforts of that department! They served a total of 116,347 meals during the time our school buildings have been closed!

SUMMER FOOD SERVICE PROGRAMS
Please check the Michigan Department of Education's Summer Food Service Program website for locations where service will be available.
Some school districts will continue to serve, in programs similar to what Bedford did, until June 30th. Procedures may be different from school to school (some schools ask you to sign up, and some deliver off the bus) so please call that district's food service department to find out how they are running their program. Phone numbers should be included on the website listed above. Service after June 30th will transition to the more traditional summer programs which may operate differently or happen in different locations once June is over.

CONTINUING ASSISTANCE AFTER SCHOOL RESUMES
FREE AND REDUCED SCHOOL MEAL BENEFITS
Those that are currently receiving benefits will remain eligible and can continue to receive them after school starts through October 19, 2020 when they expire. Applications for the 2020-21 school year will be available around August. Families can apply at any time during the school year.

Please call the Food Service Director, Meaghan Eckler, at 734-850-6127, with any questions about this program.

In addition to the BPS Food Service Program above, there are several food pantries that are available for assistance.

MOBILE FOOD PANTRIES
Dates are included on District website home page. Unless otherwise noted, mobile food pantries will:
-- not require you to register for the event.
-- give one food package to the first 250 households.*
-- require you to provide ID showing Monroe County residency for every household that wishes to receive a free food package.


LATEST UPDATE LETTER:

March 13, 2020

Good Afternoon BPS Families,

We have been working diligently throughout the day to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information in light of the closure of all school districts within the State of Michigan enacted by Governor Whitmer late last night.

While our district will not have a formal, instructor-led online learning requirement for students at this time, we encourage our students to continue to be engaged learners using their school devices at home to access the many digital educational resources available to them throughout the mandatory closure. Please know that our technology team will be hard at work throughout the closure ensuring that student accounts are up and performing effectively. For our youngest learners, active participation in already prescribed literacy and arithmetic skill building will serve as a great way to remain on track for student learning goals.

The remainder of this message is designed to allow families to easily scan and find the most relevant information.

BUILDING ACCESSIBILITY: All district buildings will be closed and off limits to students, staff, and visitors during this mandatory three-week closure except for those employees scheduled to be working at each site.

SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAM: We recognize the need for some of our students to obtain breakfast and lunch through the National School Lunch Program. We are actively developing plans to address this need within our school community. BPS will be providing “pick-up and carry” meals throughout the closure. Additional information will be sent out soon.

REQUIRED STATE ASSESSMENTS: Many questions have been presented about required state assessments, such as MSTEP, PSAT, SAT, and ACT WorkKeys. The Governor has stated that she will be working with the Department of Education to develop plans and guidance on this topic, which we will share upon receipt.

SPECIAL EDUCATION: Our special education administrators are working with the Michigan Department of Education to actively develop plans to address this need for our students. This plan will be shared with our special education families once we receive guidance and direction from the Michigan Department of Education.

SCHOOL EVENTS AND ATHLETICS: All district activities are canceled during the closure. This includes all athletics, clubs, performances, ceremonies, training, community education activities, etc. Additionally, any previously approved district facility rentals are also canceled through minimally April 6, 2020 (except for Love N Care housed at SRE).

SPRING BREAK: Spring Break is scheduled to be held April 6 through April 10. Monroe County superintendents have met and agree that any change in this schedule would be severely detrimental to our district’s families. Therefore, unless mandated by state officials, BPS will maintain our currently scheduled spring break and return to classes on April 13, 2020.

EVENTS AFTER APRIL 13th: We realize there will be questions about school and district events later in the year (5thGrade Camp, Washington DC Trip, Prom, Graduation, etc.) and we are working diligently to monitor this and as more information becomes available, we will communicate with our community.

At this time, we do not have any information regarding if the school year will be extended and are awaiting additional guidance by the State of Michigan.

District leaders will continue to provide updates as information becomes available throughout the closure. As we have already witnessed over the past forty-eight hours, information and plans change rapidly. If there is a need to make any adjustment to the information stated above, we will do so as soon as possible for planning purposes. Finally, please check out our district website for up to date COVID-19 updates and a district level FAQ. You can find this at http://www.mybedford.us/COVID-19.html.

Sincerely,
Dr. Carl Shultz
Superintendent
Bedford Public Schools


SCHOOLS ORDERED TO CLOSE FROM MARCH 16 - APRIL 5

Governor Gretchen Whitmer just announced that in order to slow the spread of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Michigan, she is ordering the closure of all K-12 school buildings to students starting Monday, March 16th until Sunday, April 5th. School buildings are scheduled to reopen on Monday, April 6. Bedford Public Schools will follow this newly mandated closure. This means that BPS will be in session tomorrow, Friday, March 13th and then begin our mandatory closure on this coming Monday. Students that do not attend tomorrow out of concern will be excused without any attendance penalty. Additional information will be sent out in the coming days as it becomes available.

Thank you, Dr. Carl Shultz

THE GOVERNOR'S ANNOUNCEMENT:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 12, 2020
Contact: [email protected]

Governor Whitmer Announces Statewide Closure of All K-12 School Buildings

School building closures will last Monday, March 16 through Sunday, April 5

LANSING, Mich. -- Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced that in order to slow the spread of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Michigan, she is ordering the closure of all K-12 school buildings, public, private, and boarding, to students starting Monday, March 16 until Sunday, April 5. School buildings are scheduled to reopen on Monday, April 6.

As of tonight, the number of presumptive positive cases of COVID-19 in Michigan is 12.

“This is a necessary step to protect our kids, our families, and our overall public health,” said Governor Whitmer. “I am working with partners across state government to ensure educators, parents, and students have the support they need during this time, and to ensure our children who rely on school for meals have access to food. I know this will be a tough time, but we’re doing this
to keep the most people we can safe. I urge everyone to make smart choices during this time and to do everything they can to protect themselves and their families.”

“Closing our K-12 school buildings is the responsible choice that will minimize the risk of exposure for children, educators, and families and mitigate the spread of coronavirus,” said Michigan State Superintendent Michael Rice. “The Department of Education will continue to work closely with our partners in state government to help our students and educators in each school district get through this time. This is about protecting the most people in Michigan.”

Governors across the country, including Mike DeWine (R-OH), Andy Beshear (D-KY), and Larry Hogan (R-MD), have taken similar steps to close schools and ensure the protection of children and families in their states.

“Closing our school buildings is the smart thing and the right thing to do for the public’s health,” said Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Chief Deputy for Health and Chief Medical Executive Dr. Joneigh Khaldun. “These actions will help mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in Michigan. I will continue to work with Governor Whitmer and our four COVID-19 task forces to ensure we protect our children, our families, and our communities.”

Patients with confirmed infection have reportedly had mild to severe respiratory illness with symptoms of:
-- Fever
-- Cough
-- Shortness of breath

The best prevention for viruses, such as influenza, the common cold or COVID-19 is to:
-- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for 20 seconds. If not available, use hand sanitizer.
-- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
-- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or upper sleeve when coughing or sneezing.
-- Avoid contact with people who are sick.
-- If you are sick, stay home, and avoid contact with others.

Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.

Posted: March 13, 2020


BEDFORD PUBLIC SCHOOLS IS MOVING FROM A PREVENTATIVE PHASE INTO A MITIGATION PHASE.

CDC mitigation strategies include recommendations for:

-- Limiting or canceling activities where more than one hundred individuals gather
-- Canceling or limiting spectator participation at athletic/arts events
-- Canceling or limiting group travel plans
-- Focusing educational activities to within the school day

Posted: March 12, 2020


SPECIAL NOTICE: JOINT MONROE COUNTY SUPERINTENDENT LETTER REGARDING CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)

The superintendents of Monroe County have released the following special notice regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19):

SPECIAL NOTICE REGARDING CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)

Dear Students, Parents, Staff and Community Members:

Governor Whitmer and representatives from the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services announced recommendations for keeping students and staff healthy while addressing the risks associated with the Coronavirus. We have been in close contact with the Monroe County Health Department and the Michigan Department of Education.

Our immediate plan for mitigating the spread of COVID-19 in our communities while advancing student learning is based on three factors:

1. Avoiding unnecessary exposure of our staff and students to illness.
2. Working to the best of our ability to ensure the continuity of teaching and learning in Monroe County.
3. Protecting the health and well-being of our multigenerational community, especially those who are most vulnerable to illness.

With this in mind, we will enact the following measures related to events and programs beginning immediately:

-- All field trips are suspended until further notice.
-- All school-sponsored travel is suspended until further notice.
-- All assemblies, performances and large-group gatherings in our schools are suspended until further notice.
-- All community meetings, community education programming (excluding before/after school childcare, preschool, and daycare programming), rentals, and gatherings scheduled to take place within our school facilities are suspended until further notice.
-- All district and county-level meetings, professional development, curriculum work and other gatherings as such, must be conducted in digital format. Smaller meetings, whenever possible, should also be conducted in this manner.
-- All athletic events will continue in accordance with guidance issued by the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA). Updates will be posted at www.mhsaa.com.
-- Any after-school activities that are extensions of the normal learning day (clubs, athletic practices, etc.) will continue as planned.
-- Visitor and volunteer access will be limited.
-- All tours of school facilities will be suspended until further notice.

As we prepare for all possible scenarios, we are asking you to develop a plan for your family in the event schools were to close for an extended period of time. The Governor has declared a state of emergency, we are taking COVID-19 very seriously and hope that with your help, we can mitigate the spread of this virus in Monroe County. Please follow the recommendations to wash your hands, stay home when you are sick, and practice good hygiene.

Governor Whitmer said, “Community mitigation strategies are designed to be implemented at the individual, organizational, and community levels. They apply to businesses, workplaces, schools, community organizations, health care institutions, and individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and health profiles; everyone has an important role to play.”

We will continue to take any/all measures to keep our children, staff, and school community safe. The situation involving this health challenge is rapidly changing and we will update you as additional guidance is received. Please continue to check your email, social media and district website for further updates.

Thank you for your attention and support regarding this important topic as safety is our number one priority.

Signed by:
John Krimmel, Airport Community Schools
Carl Shultz, Ph.D., Bedford Public Schools
Edward Manuszak, Dundee Community Schools
Sandy Kreps, Ida Public Schools
Mike Petty, Jefferson Schools
Andrew Shaw, Mason Consolidated Schools
Stephen McNew, Ed.D., Monroe County ISD
Julie Everly, Ph.D., Monroe Public Schools
Jack Hewitt, Summerfield Schools
Val Orr, Whiteford Schools

Posted: March 12, 2020

MARCH 12-13 CANCELLATIONS

All field trips are suspended for 3/12/2020 - 3/13/2020.

All assemblies and performances in our schools involving participation by the general public are suspended for 3/12/2020 - 3/13/2020.

The MHSAA is suspending all winter sport tournaments indefinitely. No contests until further notice. Updates will be posted at www.mhsaa.com.

Thank you for being patient and for understanding the difficult work that goes into making these decisions. Any cancelled events can be rescheduled at a later date based on instructor and student availability.

A complete list of strategies will be distributed later this evening for activities beyond these dates.

Stay tuned for more guidance and be prepared for modifications to current practices and event cancellations. Preventative practices will continue.

DOCUMENT LINKS

MDE/MDHHS: COVID-19 Updated Guidance, March 11, 2020
CDC: What you need to know about coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)
CDC: Implementation of Mitigation Strategies for Communities with Local COVID-19 Transmission
U of M Health: Flattening the Curve for COVID-19: What Does It Mean and How Can You Help?


LETTERS FROM SUPERINTENDENT ABOUT COVID-19

March 11, 2020
Dear Parents/Guardians,

Information regarding COVID-19 has continued to evolve and become more prevalent since my last communication. With confirmed cases of COVID-19 now in the State of Michigan as well as many other states around the nation, it is quickly becoming a reality that government officials, businesses, communities, families, and individuals must continue to remain informed and take precautionary measures to slow the spread of this virus. School districts must also continue to gather information and create multiple plans in order to flexibly respond in a way that supports the recommendations from national, state, and local health organizations and still maintains high levels of student learning. It is my hope that this letter will clarify where Bedford Public Schools is with current and future plans to keep everyone informed as we move forward.

As I mentioned before, much of our work as a district has been spent staying current in order to implement the latest precautionary measures. Our guidance has primarily come from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and Center for Disease Control (CDC) until this evening when Governor Whitmer released recommended community mitigation strategies specific to school districts. These strategies that are taken directly from the CDC include recommendations for limiting or canceling activities where more than one hundred individuals gather, canceling or limiting spectator participation at athletic/arts events, canceling or limiting group travel plans, and focusing educational activities to within the school day. While these recommendations will absolutely affect the current district calendar of events including our scheduled academic and extra-curricular events, they are highly recommended by state and national health experts. Additionally, today, I met with representatives from the Monroe County Department of Health, Monroe County Community College, and my fellow Monroe County Superintendents to discuss a countywide approach to implementing some or all of these strategies.

When information about the spread of COVID-19 began increasing and the likelihood of its continued spread became more apparent, I assembled our district leadership team to address potential areas of impact such as athletics, transportation, custodial/maintenance, health services, and instructional services to name a few. It is our goal to make informed decisions and organized plans in order to maintain a safe and healthy learning environment for students and staff. The team works continuously to prepare for the evolving and changing situation and will be working to incorporate recommended guidelines in the coming days.

Please know, at the initial onset of this year’s difficult cold and flu season, BPS began the process of systematically and routinely disinfecting and deep cleaning high traffic areas in each building such as door handles, bathrooms, cafeterias, and classrooms. To date, these measures represent our best resources in preventing the spread of COVID-19 and other contagious viruses. Please continue to reinforce preventative measures at home as well, especially hand washing and keeping children home if they are feeling sick or ill.

Below is a helpful reminder of ways to help prevent the spread of the virus:

-- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
-- Practice elbow bumps instead of handshakes
-- Stay home if you are sick and advise others to do the same.
-- Always cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue or sleeve.
-- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
-- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
-- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, if soap and warm water are not available.
-- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces

As a school district, we will continue to monitor and implement the recommendations of the CDC and will work closely with Monroe County Health Department Officials to rely on updated information. In today’s day and age when rumors can spread even faster than infectious viruses, it is absolutely imperative that you rely on official informational outlets. If you, or your students, have questions pertaining to BPS or our current progress in dealing with COVID-19 preparedness, please contact our district administration building directly or follow our official media platforms. My research has found that this virus is absolutely dangerous and can be spread rapidly, however the mass hysteria and rumors surrounding it seems to be equally as dangerous. Please rely on the experts I have referred to in this letter and my previous informational letter for accurate and up to date information. I will also continue to provide you with information and updates as they develop.

Thank you for your continued support of BPS, especially during this rapidly evolving time. By working together we can help support our students, staff, and community.

Sincerely,
Dr. Carl Shultz
Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools
(734) 850-6001, Office


MARCH 3, 2020

BPS Parents and Guardians,

Many of you have been following news from around the world and within our country regarding COVID-19 (formerly known as Novel Coronavirus 2019) and have thoughts, questions, and concerns about this virus’s impact on our community and your family. It is my goal to share the most current information we have regarding COVID-19 and provide resources for future information. As you are aware, the information on this virus is changing by the day and there is a lot of information being shared through many media sources. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and Monroe County Health Department (MCHD) remain our best resources for accurate and up to date information.

While the CDC has not yet provided any formal guidance for schools to prepare for a potential community outbreak, MCHD and other local health departments have emergency preparedness systems ready to be activated if an outbreak occurs in Michigan. Current general recommendations from the CDC, MDHHS, and MCHD for reducing the risk of infection from cold and flu-like viruses include:

-- Thoroughly washing hands for at least 20 seconds
-- Using hand sanitizer to wash hands when soap and water are not available
-- Disinfecting surfaces
-- Covering noses and mouths with a tissue or cloth when sneezing
-- Staying away from sick people and staying home if you are sick

Bedford Public Schools has been taking extra cleaning measures in order to combat the spread of colds and flu, a practice we will continue as an extra layer of protection as we deal with the threat of this virus. Additional information is available on the MDHHS and CDC websites via the links below, including CDC fact sheets that are updated regularly.

CDC COVID-19 Information
CDC Fact Sheets
MDHHS COVID-19 Information

The District will remain in close communication with the MCHD and MDHHS, and we will continue to monitor the CDC website and send necessary updates as they become available.

Thank you,
Dr. Carl Shultz
Superintendent
Bedford Public Schools
734-850-6001


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