Return to School Road Map Update

State Progress

A young student sits at a desk with laptop computer

Rochester Community Schools adopts 1-to-1 technology model

On June 17, Governor Whitmer announced that schools may resume in-person learning in Phase 4 of the MI Safe Start plan, with strict safety measures in place.

On June 30, the state will release “Michigan’s Return to School Road Map” with detailed requirements for schools.

Dr. Robert Shaner is one of 25 leaders appointed to the governor’s Return to School Advisory Council, providing input on this reopening plan.

Rochester Community Schools (RCS) has already confirmed that it plans to: resume in-person instruction in the fall; build an all-virtual learning option for families; and be prepared with a robust remote-learning plan that could be enacted quickly in case of a public health crisis resurgence.

Athletics

Following the expiration of the governor’s Safer-at-Home order, and with guidance from the Michigan High School Athletic Association, RCS may resume outdoor athletic activities beginning June 22, with restrictions.

Voluntary outdoor conditioning and practices may take place in groups of 100 or less with  6 feet of distancing between participants. Temperatures will be taken onsite each day. Physical contact, sharing equipment, and indoor activities are not permitted.

1-to-1 Equitable Technology

In preparation for the 2020-21 school year, RCS will move to a 1:1 technology model, ensuring that all 15,000 students have access to a device. Previously, devices were shared from mobile computer labs in each school.

  • The district purchased 11,000 new Dell Chromebooks to add to its existing inventory. Students may choose to use their own laptop or device at home.
  • This 1:1 technology integration ensures that the district’s commitment to academic excellence will continue in any learning environment, whether in-person or remote.
  • Thanks to the community’s investment in the 2015 bond and 2019 sinking fund, RCS has the technology infrastructure and funding available to support and sustain 1:1 devices, remote learning, and innovative technology-enhanced instruction.
  • The deployment of 1:1 technology is scheduled for the fall; however, timelines may need to be adjusted due to the availability of equipment.

Community Research

Community phone surveys seeking input on the return to school in RCS have been completed by EPIC-MRA. Data results will be shared in the near future.

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Rochester Media publishes The Community Edge digital newsletter of recently posted articles from Rochester Media, a hyper-local news outlet covering all things in and around Rochester, Rochester Hills, and Oakland Township. Send us you press releases and news happenings to editor@rochestermedia.com.

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