In our ongoing effort to provide updated information to our Forest Hills community, and information as we head back to school, we have created this page to address questions we are receiving, and for the sharing of information, guidance, and resources. Please remember that information is changing rapidly. Everyone can do their part to help and be supportive during this uncertain time. Children take their cues from adults. By upholding the district’s guiding principles of caring, collaboration, open communication, respect, and trust, we are confident that we will get through this together, as a community. We appreciate your cooperation and trust as we proactively work together for everyone’s safety.
Video Messages from the Superintendent
July 31, 2020: In this edition of the Forecast, we discuss a general overview and then grade specifics for the latest draft of our Return to School plan. Finally, we will share the medical perspective that the district has received from multiple West Michigan pediatricians on returning to school.
July 24, 2020: In this edition of the Forecast, we discuss more specifically what Phase 4 learning will look like according to Michigan’s plan. We talk about what riding a bus looks like and face coverings for students and adults. Handwashing breaks, cohorting, and the importance of going outside in school are also highlighted. We also share with you safety protocols for teachers, staff, and adults that are in place, even this summer, upon entering our buildings each day. We dive deeper into what happens if someone tests positive who has been in a school. Finally, we talk about a recent FHPS survey for school families, the importance of filling it out, for the district to know whether or not families will be choosing the FHPS online/remote learning option or in-person instruction.
July 17, 2020: In this edition, we look closer at Phase 3 and Phase 4 of the MI Return to School Roadmap, the notion of social groupings, and a candid conversation about the array of emotions people have about returning to school.
July 10, 2020: In this episode, we share the MI Safe Schools: Michigan’s 2020-21 Return to School Roadmap and what it means for Forest Hills Public Schools and the community.
June 26, 2020: In this episode, we share our game plan and the importance of following health protocols to keep COVID-19 at bay. We also thank our food service team for all of their hard work preparing and distributing over 203,000 meals since March. While meals will no longer be available the rest of the summer at FHPS sites, here’s valuable information on local food banks, fresh food pantries, and much more. Finally, we share a candid conversation about mental health and the importance of talking to others, reaching out, sharing feelings, and if additional assistance is needed, please check our additional resources.
June 26, 2020: In this episode, we share our game plan and the importance of following health protocols to keep COVID-19 at bay. We also thank our food service team for all of their hard work preparing and distributing over 203,000 meals since March. While meals will no longer be available the rest of the summer at FHPS sites, here’s valuable information on local food banks, fresh food pantries, and much more. Finally, we share a candid conversation about mental health and the importance of talking to others, reaching out, sharing feelings, and if additional assistance is needed, please check our additional resources.
June 19, 2020: In this episode, we share how our teachers are masters at their craft, so please do not worry about gaps in learning. Teachers are excellent in assessing where children are and closing any gaps there may exist when we return to school for face-to-face learning in the fall. Also, if your family is interested in summer activities, the Brain Gain, GRASP, summer reading, and the importance of playing outside are highlighted.
June 12, 2020: In this episode, we share three things. First, we convey gratitude to our students, staff, teachers, and families as we close the books on this school year. Second, student outdoor physical activities commence next week with precautionary measures in place. Third, we share a candid conversation about the start of school for next year.
June 5, 2020: In this episode, we share four things. First, an update about the coronavirus in our community. Second, summer learning opportunities. Third, the start-of-school survey administered by the Kent Intermediate School District. Fourth, the first day of school for the 2020-21 school year: Monday, Aug. 24.
Two additional items released this week:
May 29, 2020: In this episode, we are sharing the Forest Hills Public Schools Foundation State of the District Update and information about an important survey that will be going out to FHPS parents the week of June 1, 2020.
May 22, 2020: In this edition of the Forest Hills Forecast, Superintendent Behm shares information about commencement, summer programs, the future of school, retrieval of belongings in school buildings, and summer food distribution.
May 15, 2020: This is an introductory video by FHPS Superintendent Dan Behm about upcoming weekly videos that will provide a transparent window on our best thinking on the myriad of issues the district is working through to get students back to our classrooms.
Updated Info./Discussions About Fall of 2020
June 5, 2020: “Our Kids, Our Future: COVIE-19 and the looming crisis in public school funding” by School News Network
May 29, 2020: “What will school look like in the fall? Community leaders prepare for various scenarios” by School News Network
May 26, 2020: “School officials join legislators calling for federal help with pandemic-induced state budget shortfalls” by School News Network
May 22, 2020: “Superintendents face massive budget cuts that would dwarf those in the Great Recession” by School News Network
May 8, 2020: An article titled, “School leaders working together to plan for fall and beyond” appeared in School News Network and gave an overview of the very initial stages happening at Kent Intermediate School District and there is a committee made up of area superintendents looking into numerous options.
Informative Videos
Quick Links
- Items Needed by Area Hospitals and Health Care Agencies: Donation Lists
- FHPS Infection Control Measures
- Reminders of When to Keep a Child Home from School
- Kent County Health Department
- CDC Coronavirus Situation Summary
- Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Map
- Michigan.gov Coronavirus Update
- Spectrum Health: Handwashing Reminders and Protocol
- FHPS Continuity of Learning Plan
- Student WiFi Locations
- Return to Learn Summary
Previous messages from the district about the coronavirus
Message from the Superintendent: Return to Learn Plan Highlights
Dear Forest Hills Families, Today, we are pleased to release the highlights of our return to learn plan that describes how we will begin the 2020-21 school year. Our plan is based first and foremost on the health and safety of our students and staff members. Second, our plan is designed to deliver high-quality instruction, […]
COVID-19 Update: Food Programs Offering Assistance to Families
Although Forest Hills Public Schools will end its food distribution program on Friday, June 23, due to a lack of federal funding for this program in our district, there are many options throughout Kent County to assist families in need. Here is just a small listing of organizations to assist with food insecurity: The Other […]
COVID-19 Update: Meal Distribution Continues Throughout June
The district will continue with breakfast and lunch meal distribution during June for all students age 18 and under as well as students with disabilities age 26 and under. Locations: Central High School and Northern High School Days: Tuesday (Wednesday-Friday meals) and Friday (Saturday-Tuesday meals) Time: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
COVID-19 Update: Summer School Options
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, no in-person offerings are available this summer at Forest Hills Public Schools. However, multiple online options exist and these options are posted on our website on our Summer Academy page. As always, prior to enrollment, please check with your school counselor to determine appropriate course selection(s) and complete a self-paid course […]
COVID-19 Update: Aquatic Center Remains Closed
As we move into this next phase of seasons, many are missing using the pool at the FHPS Aquatic Center. The pool is closed along with the cancelation of Community Services classes, events, and activities for the summer of 2020.
COVID-19 Update: Community Services Classes Canceled for the Summer
Unfortunately, all summer 2020 enrichment programs operated through the Forest Hills Community Services department have been canceled. This includes FHPS Summerstock Theater and all aquatic programs.
COVID-19 Update: Mental Health and Well-Being Support Web Page Added
Our world has changed significantly due to COVID-19. Everyone’s reality at home is now different. As a result, now more than ever, it is critical to take care of your mental health. Please remember that you are not alone; there are people in your school community to help. FHPS has created a web page full […]
COVID-19 Update: Meal Distribution Continues, More Chromebooks, Continuity of Learning Plan
Dear Forest Hills Families, Here is some updated information on a few topics; meal distribution, Chromebook device distribution, and the district’s transition from supplemental learning to ongoing, remote learning. Meal Distribution The district will continue with breakfast and lunch meal distribution through June 2 for all students age 18 and under as well as students […]
