The start of the 2020-21 school year will be like any other we have experienced here in the Farmington and Farmington Hills community. Throughout the summer, the Farmington Public Schools' administrators, teachers and staff have been hard at work preparing for a variety of scenarios related to how teaching and learning could look in an age of the COVID-19 pandemic.

At this time, FPS plans to reopen its school buildings to students and staff at the start of the school year. There will also be a virtual option for families who request it for their students. The first day of school will be Monday, August 31.

The district is planning for a number of new protocols and procedures designed to protect public health and safety. This includes adjustments to the school day to avoid large numbers of individuals gathering in any one space at a time. The district will also encourage social distancing in its buildings, engage in increased cleaning and disinfecting of spaces and implement several other key measures.

Staff and students, with exception of those who are unable to medically tolerate the wearing of a mask, will be required to wear a face covering while in school.

It's also worth noting that the school district could find a need to return to all-virtual learning once again at some point in the year. The district's educators and staff have been preparing for this possibility, as well. If this scenario arises, virtual learning would be required for all students. 

If you would like to learn more about FPS's reopening plans, visit https://www.farmington.k12.mi.us/moving-forward-learning. This page includes updates on the district's reopening plan, safety procedures in school buildings and a wide range of other key information. 

Although it's difficult to know for sure how the school year will go, FPS is committed to protecting the health and safety of all students, staff, families and community members. It is our hope that teaching and learning can proceed with as few interruptions as possible.