The Allegan County Health Department has announced it will no longer recommend remote learning in schools unless an ongoing spread is taking place within a building.

This decision was made based on a lower Covid-19 virus positivity rate in Allegan County, an increase in staff vaccinations, and the ability to do rapid, on-site testing for staff. With these new recommendations in mind and the fact that all seven local districts will be increasing their in-person instruction, this week the Allegan County Tech Center recommended to the AAESA School Board to increase the amount of in-person instruction available.

Beginning Monday, March 8, the Tech Center will return to in-person instruction five days a week.

“We are excited to be back to a structured schedule which will allow your child to be academically successful and socially/emotionally supported,” said ACATEC PrincipalRich Okoniewski. “It is important to note that this year we have worked hard to provide your child with the safest and most secure environment by implementing hygienic practices such as wearing masks, social distancing, and effective cleaning protocols. We will continue to make this a priority as we return to more in-person instruction.”

While returning to more in-person instruction, some future events will still be altered because of Covid restrictions. A Facebook Live Open House will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, April 28.

Besides a virtual open house, the annual student awards ceremony will be virtual as well.

“While we cannot be together in-person, we want to recognize our students for their tremendous efforts and the accomplishments that they achieved during a tough year filled with obstacles and many changes,” Okoniewski added.

More information will be provided about this event as things move closer to the end of the school year.

“Again, we are excited for the opportunity to have student’s back full time” Okoniewski said. “This is an exciting time of year for our students as they prepare for their post-secondary plans as seniors, or as juniors anticipate their upcoming final year of high school with plans of returning to the Allegan Tech Center as a senior.”