Macomb Today

After the Michigan Legislature reached an agreement for school, Rep. Pamela Hornberger (R-Chesterfield Township) is calling on Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to support the bipartisan back-to-school plan approved by both the House and the Senate.

The plan Hornberger is asking Whitmer to agree to would allow school districts decide for themselves how to proceed with the school year, according to Michigan House Republicans. Districts can choose from online, in-person or a hybrid model for learning.

“Our local health departments are equipped with experts who know what’s best for the kids in each unique community across Michigan,” Hornberger said, according to Michigan House Republicans. “As a mother and a former teacher, I want what’s best for our students. This plan accomplishes my two priorities: keeping kids safe and continuing to advance their education, no matter the mode of instruction. I’m pleased we were able to come to this solution with the governor.”

Rep. Pamela Hornberger | Michigan House Republicans

But families are still waiting to hear which method their district will be using for the fall, which is rapidly approaching.

“Students, parents and teachers are all waiting to find out what the plan is for the coming school year. If we do nothing, students will suffer intellectually and fall behind their peers in other states," Hornberger said in another press release from the Michigan House Republicans. “I am fighting to give children a voice in state government, to ensure our plan is what’s best for them and for their families. We cannot finalize a plan without the governor’s support. It’s time for her to come to the table and work with us to ensure children receive the education they are entitled to under the Michigan constitution.”

Hornberger is the chair of the House Education Committee and spearheaded the "Return to Learn" plan.