Flushing View

GBCS returns to remote learning until Jan. 25




GRAND BLANC — Staff shortages and an “alarming” increase in the incidence of positive COVID cases have forced the Grand Blanc Community Schools to return to remote learning.

In a Jan. 11 letter to district families, Superintendent Dr. Trevor Alward wrote that the transition to remote instruction is “necessary, but temporary.”

Grand Blanc High School students went to remote learning on Thursday, Jan. 13, while preschoolers through 8th graders made the transition Tuesday. All students are expected to return to the classroom Jan. 25.

The change will “give us a solid 10 days apart to restart with what we hope will be many more healthy students and staff,” Alward wrote. “Shifting to remote is not easy on anyone, and we did not make this decision lightly. We will continue to evaluate the situation and the need for further contingencies as we navigate these winter months.”

District officials also have extended the mask requirement through Feb. 18 due to the new omicron variant and holiday exposures. They had planned to allow students and staff to choose whether to mask during the second semester.

Families who are in need of student meals during the closure may request “Grab N’ Go” meals by calling 810-591-6674.