Important School Update

Online Learning April 13 - 15, 2021

April 9, 2021

Dear Mercy Parent/Guardian,

Michigan COVID-19 infection rates are surging and we are concerned about the possibility of community spread given student and staff travels as well as gatherings over Easter break. This morning Governor Whitmer, in partnership with the MDHHS, urged Michigan high schools to voluntarily “pause” in-person instruction for two weeks following spring break. Our plan follows.

We believe it is best to return to online instruction (3 days plus Wellness Wednesday) the first week after break. It is important to ensure that we are thoughtful in determining whether a 2-week pause is needed given our mitigation measures. As we move closer to the end of next week, we will further assess if a second week of online instruction is warranted. Sports will continue with mandatory COVID-19 testing.

All classes will meet online April 13, 15 and 16 using the normal daily schedule, including designated lunch times. April 14 will remain a Wellness Wednesday for students. Students should check their Mercy email accounts and course Schoology pages for communications from teachers.

We currently plan to return to in-person instruction on Monday, April 19, yet will make an assessment as we near the end of next week.

In preparation for our return to school, we encourage you to consider having your student and family members COVID-19 tested the week of April 12, especially if you traveled out of state. COVID-19 testing sites in your area can be found here.

It is important that we continue to monitor the COVID-19 rate within our Mercy community. Please communicate any COVID-19 infections or exposures to Mrs. Eleasha Tarplin, Dean of Student Affairs at edtarplin@mhsmi.org.

We thank you for your support and look forward to our in-person return.

In Mercy,

The Mercy Administration