Joint Statement
Statement from MAISA, MASA, MASB, MASSP, MSBO Regarding School Closures Across the State
Last night Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and State Superintendent Michael Rice announced the closure of all K-12 school buildings—public, private and boarding—from Monday, March 16 to Sunday, April 5, 2020, in order to slow the spread of COVID-19. This morning, Governor Whitmer signed Executive Order 2020-5 to cancel all events over 250 people and all assemblages in shared spaces over 250 people beginning on Friday, March 13 at 5:00pm and ending on Sunday, April 5 at 5:00pm. In response to these announcements, the executive directors of Michigan Association of Intermediate School Administrators, Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators, Michigan Association of School Boards, Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals, and Michigan School Business Officials issued the following statement:
“All of our organizations support the Governor’s directives. This is a difficult decision and we understand the challenges that this will create, especially for families and students. As educators, we understand that we must work together to keep our communities, and especially our children, safe.
School leaders have been and continue to take actions they believe are in the best interest of students. It has been a group effort by all educators – teachers, support staff, building and central office administrators – to find ways to support the whole child and ensure our three imperatives as educators – wellness, learning, and safety – are all addressed during this difficult period.
Of primary concern at this time is the health and well-being of Michigan’s children. Our organizations are currently working with the Governor’s office, lawmakers, the Michigan Department of Education and other state agencies to ensure students will be fed and vital services continue. Additionally, educators statewide are pulling together to share resources and collaborate around ways to support students to continue learning while they are at home. As this situation continues to evolve, we remain committed to working together to address problems and support all our students.”
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