Video Messages from the Superintendent
- For the recent video Forecast, Aug. 28, 2020, see our Return to Learn page.
In our twelfth episode of the Forest Hills Forecast, dated August 21, 2020, we share information on the following topics:
- Building classroom foundations, connections, and relationships
- What to expect the first weeks of school
- What learning will look like on the hybrid days for those who selected the in-person learning option
- A Candid Conversation about what will happen after the first two weeks of school for elementary students and the first four weeks for secondary students
August 14, 2020: In this edition of the Forecast, we discuss the protocol about what happens should someone test positive for COVID-19 in our schools. We also discuss the opening of schools and welcoming our students back in a few weeks.
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.
