DISTANCE LEARNING PLAN

What is the GRPS return to school plan for the start of school on August 25?

There will be 100% virtual learning for the first nine weeks of school. We will start school on August 25 virtually until the end of the first marking period on October 21. During this time, we will be assessing the COVID situation to determine if we continue virtual learning or transition to potential in-person or hybrid learning.

The on-line learning platform for PK-5/PK-8 schools will continue to be SeeSaw and 6-12 schools will use Google Classroom. Some schools 6-12 schools will be piloting a new learning platform known as Schoology. 

ASSESSMENTS

Will there be student assessments and tests?

Yes. Within the first few days of school, every student will be assessed on their understanding of prerequisite skills and grade-level proficiencies using formative assessments, screeners, or diagnostics. Existing assessment examples include but are not limited to:

• Fountas and Pinnell
• MAP Reading Fluency
• ReadyGEN diagnostic assessment
• GoMath assessment
• Grade level/content specific unit pre/post assessments

These assessments are in addition to the normal formative and summative assessments that teachers will be administering throughout the year.

GRADING

Will students be graded on their work during distance learning?

Yes. There will be mandatory grading of assignments and assessments. Letter grades will be provided on the first marking period report cards.

ATTENDANCE

Will student attendance be taken?

Yes. Attendance is mandatory and will be taken during synchronous learning periods just like traditional instruction.

SCHEDULES

What will the daily/weekly schedules look like? 

Based on feedback from parents and staff on our spring distance learning, there will be increased direct (synchronous) instruction by teachers, office hours, small group instruction, and student interventions. Students will also be given assignments to complete on their own (asynchronous).

While the district has established a framework for what daily/weekly schedules may look like, each school and their student’s teacher will be providing detailed schedules and expectations that may vary based on the school and classrooms.

When will students know who their teacher is and what the class schedules are?

PK-5 and PK-8 students will receive notification regarding their classroom assignment and the name of their teacher by Thursday, August 13. Middle and high school students’ class schedules will be mailed by Thursday, August 13 as well. Principals and school-based staff will follow up with families pertaining to these items.

SPECIAL EDUCATION

How will the district support students eligible for special education services?

High expectations for learning remains in place for all students. Instruction will be synchronous and/or asynchronous with individualized accommodations for special education students where online/technology-based instruction may not work. 

The general concept for students with disabilities is that while their disability remains constant, their needs may be different for distance learning than they are for in person learning IEPs will be revised to reflect students’ needs following a period of assessment. IEPs will continue to be offered via phone conference or other digital platforms.

Face to face services will be for evaluation purposes only during this nine week period. Outside of the formal evaluation process, a related service provider may need to meet with a student for the purpose of assessment [only]. This will be on a scheduled, periodic basis for the purpose of assessment [only] for the safety of students and staff alike. 

Compliance and protections offered to students remain intact. We are adhering to IDEA, Michigan Administrative Rules, and CARES Act governance, as well as guidance being provided by the Michigan Department of Education.

For special education questions regarding 504 plans/IEPs, parents should call 616-819-2185. 

ENGLISH LANGUAGE SERVICES

How will the district support students eligible for English Language Learner services? 

We will ensure ongoing academic achievement for all English Learners by promoting English language proficiency through meaningful instruction that integrates both content and language learning, and by valuing our students’ rich language and cultural backgrounds.

Instruction will be synchronous and/or asynchronous with essential grade level English Learner language supports. We will engage families by providing communication in both English and the home language. Translations and interpretations will be available. To further support our English Learners and families we will communicate and engage with community agencies as well. 

For English Language Learner questions, parents should call 616-819-2129.

PARENT SUPPORTS

What supports are available for parents?

If parents have questions or need support, they should first contact the school or teacher. 

For technical support (log in/passwords, internet, devices, etc.), parent may call the hotline at 616-301-1111 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

For special education questions regarding 504 plans/IEPs, parents should call 616-819-2185. 

For English Language Learner questions, parents should call 616-819-2129.

There is also helpful information available at parents.grps.org

THEME SCHOOLS

Will theme schools have flexibility to be able to continue some form of programming based on the theme of the school?

The district has provided a framework of expectations for how to deliver distance learning with days, hours, and the learning platform. Schools and teachers will have flexibility to incorporate thematic programming within this framework. 

How will theme applications and selections be made for the 2020-2021 school year? How will the district handle selections without fall MAP scores for the test-in schools?

The theme school application window is scheduled to open on October 1. We are in the process of confirming what assessments, if any, will be given during the distance learning period and when/if schools return to in-person or hybrid learning. If we are able to return to in-person/hybrid learning after the first nine weeks, we do plan on administering the MAP tests. More information on theme school applications and the selection process will be communicated on or before October 1. 

If Michigan moves to Phase 5 or 6 of the MI Safe Start Plan, what are GRPS plans?

During Phase 5, when the district resumes face to face instruction, we are recommending an A/B schedule. This schedule would allow approximately half of our students to attend school every other week or two consecutive days per week face to face. Students not attending in-person will continue attending through distance learning. In Phase 6, we plan to have regular instruction. As we update the district’s plan we will continue to collaborate with stakeholders before making a final decision. All safety guidelines pertaining to the MI Safe Schools: Michigan 2020-21 Return to School Roadmap will be followed.

If the district returns to 100% in-person or a hybrid after the first nine weeks, will parents have an opportunity to continue 100% virtual if they are not comfortable with sending students to school?

Yes. We will continue to offer 100% virtual learning if schools return to in-person or a hybrid.

TEACHERS ACCESS TO CLASSROOM

Will teachers be able to access their classrooms during the distance learning period? 

Yes. In accordance with all the safety and security measures required, teachers may access their classrooms between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday. 

TECHNOLOGY AND INTERNET ACCESS

What is the district plan for device distribution and internet access for those families who may not have appropriate technology or internet access?

To further strengthen and support our virtual learning, we are loaning one-to-one devices for all enrolled students (iPads for PK-1 grades and Chromebooks for 2-12 grades). We will also provide internet access support based on need (wireless hotspots or Internet Essentials). Students must be enrolled before scheduling a time to pick up the devices. If you have not already enrolled your student(s), go to enroll.grps.org.

Home internet is recommended to be a minimum speed of 10 Mbps download / 2 Mbps upload. If these speeds are not available, a phone may be used to dial into calls. 

Any brand phone, tablet, laptop, desktop, or other device that has Internet access via wifi or hardwire ethernet connection and an Internet Browser, preferably Chrome, can be used.

A letter was mailed to families to provide notification regarding technology distribution and technology support. Distribution will take place August 17-October 23 by appointment only for enrolled GRPS students. Parents must schedule a device pick up date/time through loan.grps.org. The registration number and PIN that was mailed home is required, so please bring it to the pick up location. 

Regional technology distribution sites are Gerald R. Ford, City, Harrison, Burton Middle School and the former Campus Early Childhood Center (1340 Thomas SE). The sites will be open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Students and families who do not have access to the above requirements should contact (616) 301-1111 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for instructions on how to determine if GRPS device distribution is a solution or to get information about the non-technology alternative learning packets provided by the classroom teacher(s).

GRPS Mobile Device Guidelines

ATHLETICS / LOOP AFTER SCHOOL / EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Will high school athletics be offered this fall? 

Although the district plans on beginning the school year using virtual learning, we plan to continue in-person athletics at the elementary, K-8, middle school, and high school levels. The district will follow all mandates, requirements, and protocols set forth by the State of Michigan, the Michigan High School Athletic Association, and the National Federation of State High School Associations for any and all athletic and extracurricular activities.

The district will implement a “checklist” of strict guidelines and safe practices for daily operation (currently in use for summer programming and used by all member schools of the OK Athletic Conference) for any and all activities that include (but are not limited to) the following:

• ● Paperwork and Policy Management
• ● Staff Management
• ● Sports Equipment Management
• ● Event Management
• ● Pre-Workout Screening: All checklist items must be checked before participation is approved.
• ● Limitations on Gatherings
• ● Facilities Cleaning
• ● Physical Activity and Athletic Equipment
• ● Hydration
• ● Hygiene

The district will continue to follow the recommendations and guidelines of the MHSAA regarding any changes that may occur once the school year has started in terms of risk level for operating any and all athletic programming.

Will elementary, K-8, and middle school athletics (Great Sports, Great Kids) be offered this fall?

Yes, all elementary, K-8, and middle school athletics will continue. However, we are unable to provide transportation to and from practices. Parents will need to provide transportation to and from practices. Transportation will be provided to and from competitions. 

Will extra-curricular activities like marching band, clubs, and others be offered this fall?

Other than athletics and virtual LOOP after school programming, all extra-curricular activities are cancelled until further notice. 

Will LOOP after school programming be offered this fall?

Yes, LOOP After School programming will be offered virtually this fall at the 20 designated LOOP schools. Programming includes academic support and enrichment activities. The start date is September 8 and programming will be provided 4 days a week, Monday through Thursday. 

NUTRITION SERVICES / GRAB AND GO MEAL SITES

What is the district plan for nutrition services for GRPS students? 

All GRPS students will have the opportunity to receive a breakfast and lunch for each school day. Starting August 24, grab and go meal sites will be every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Alger Middle, Buchanan Elementary, Burton Elementary/Middle, Campus Elementary, Cesar E. Chavez Elementary, City High/Middle, Dickinson Academy, East Leonard Elementary, Gerald R. Ford Academic Center, CA Frost Middle/High, Harrison ParkSchool, Kent Hills Elementary, Ottawa Hills High School, Sherwood Park Global Studies Academy, Sibley Elementary, and Westwood Middle.

CHILD CARE SERVICES

Will the district be providing child care services to families? 

No, the district is not in the position to provide child care services at this time. 

GSRP PreK schedule