In an email sent to parents, Hancock School District Superintendent Dr. Steve Patchin announced that Representative Greg Markkanen, had asked Dr. Patchin, George Stokero of the Copper Country ISD and Jim Bobula, Superintendent of Ontonagon Schools, to testify before Michigan’s House and Senate Education Committee hearing.
Patchin outlined the steps his district took at the start of the shutdown, including learning packets, distance learning and providing food service for students.
He also requested help from the legislature, with K-12 seat-time waivers, which would allow students who have chosen not to return to school, receive distance learning, and the district receive full credit for teaching them.
Flexibility in using masks and face shields was also asked for.
Loosening restrictions on “Count Day” Where the district receives 90% of their yearly funding, based on attendance for that day, along with a request to limit cuts to school funding next year, was also discussed with the legislature.
A campaign to stress personal hygiene was also mentioned.
The district is working on a plan to mitigate the spread of the virus, and they hope to have the plan completed by August 17th, for everyone to review.