Today we received an update on the Benzie Central Schools from the new Superintendent, Amiee Erfourth. Prior to her appointment Aimee spent 20 years at Betsie Valley Elementary School, the last six as Principal.
 
Aimee said that she and her colleagues had spent most of the summer planning for the reopening of schools in the fall. They came up with a plan in accordance with Phases 4 and 5 of the Governor's directives.  Under the plan all students wear masks coming to and going from school.  The younger students remove their masks in their classroom, while 6th-12th graders wear masks all day except during meals. There are extensive protocols for cleaning.
 
There has been a big learning curve with technology, with a number of software programs available.  Many students have selected to attend on-line.  October 1 is the final date for students to return to school, and at this point 90 students are unaccounted for.  Count Day is coming in early October.
 
The Health Department has been great, with weekly calls and daily updates.  After three weeks there have been no real COVID issues.   
 
Amiee reviewed the several projects in which our Club is involved, including Power Book Bags, Reading is Fundamental, the Benzie Valley Community Center and the upcoming bond issue. While Matt Olson left the District in a good place financially, support is needed for the requested millage increase of .39 mills.  Finally, Homecoming is this weekend at Benzie Central.