HPS district is taking right approach to classroom learning

The Hamtramck Public School District has decided not to rush back to in-person classroom learning this March.
Recently, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer opened the doors for schools to return to classroom learning starting in March – but left the final decision up to local school officials.
HPS Superintendent Jaleelah Ahmed has wisely chosen to err on the side of caution.
While there are many shortcomings to virtual learning at home, the COVID health risks remain severe.
Over the past several months, Hamtramck has recorded over 1,700 COVID cases, with 37 deaths.
For a city with an official population of 22,000, that’s a lot of cases. And no wonder. Residents here live side-by-side with each other.
We are often in each other’s space.
Returning to in-person learning, however, has the potential to be a super-spreader.
The district, instead, is taking a cautious step-by-step approach. There will be an eventual return to school for students – possibly starting with those students who are having trouble with keeping up with virtual learning.
We know many parents are over-burdened with the responsibility of having kids at home.
But this conservative approach is in the best interest of the community.
Posted Jan. 22, 2021