FRASER, Mich. (WXYZ) — Fraser Public Schools has been granted permission by the Michigan Department of Education to launch Fraser Virtual K-12, an entirely virtual school for the 2020-2021 school year. Enrollment begins Monday.
The district is still planning for in-person instruction, but wanted to have this as an option.
“While we are planning for students to return to our school buildings in September (based upon the status of Governor’s Executive Orders to reopen), we realize that some families may not be comfortable with this or would like alternative options for their child’s education,” said Superintendent Carrie Wozniak. “We believe that it is important to provide that choice to our families.”
Fraser Public Schools is facing the same financial uncertainty every other district in the state is facing, potential massive budget cuts in the wake of the pandemic. And will there be a second wave of COVID-19?
“I’m trying to plan for lots of different scenarios,” Wozniak said.
Districts are still waiting on guidance from the governor and a budget from Lansing, but thanks to a seat waiver approval through MDE, Fraser is making decisions now.
“We want to make sure we give parents some control in a time when you feel you don’t have very much,” Wozniak said.
Since 2011 the district technology plan has been 1 to 1, so every student K-8th grade has an iPad and grades 9-12 students are issues a MacBook.
While the last minute transition to online learning in the spring went smoothly, Wozniak says they are incorporating feedback from parents and students for the Fall. She also wants to make sure teachers have ample time to prepare.
“We’re really trying to make sure that the online, virtual experience is just the same quality and the same rigor as you would get in the traditional classroom. That requires a lot of professional development, a lot of good planning and a lot of good thinking,” Wozniak said.
Some notes about Fraser Virtual K-12:
- Fraser Virtual K-12 will be taught by Fraser teachers and offer the same high-qualityeducation and support that Fraser Public Schools is known for.
- Students enrolled in this option will still be able to participate in band, athletics,performing arts and student organizations.
- Elementary students may need to come in occasionally for small group meetings andsupport.
- Middle school and high school students will be able to participate in hybrid classes andstill take courses in Career and Technology Education offerings.
- The district will host a series of parent webinars this summer to share more information.Current families and new schools of choice families can enroll in Fraser Virtual K-12 from June 15- August 26. The schools of choice window for traditional face-to-face school will remain open through September 11.Schools of choice enrollment will follow the established rules for enrollment: students must be Macomb County residents and not been suspended in the last two school years or ever expelled. Unlimited space is available for students entering grades K-11.
- FPS also had about 100 teachers and staff members volunteer to be a part of the districtwide Return to School Task Force. They will work with guidance from local, state and national education and health officials to develop a plan for the upcoming school year. Parent and community input will also be included in the plan.
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