With a new year comes new protocols for schools across Michigan.

Starting on December 22, 2021, the Genesee County Health Department will drop its mandatory mask ordinance for schools in the area. Flushing Community Schools have now reached out to parents and stated that masking is "strongly recommended, but optional." Updated COVID protocols and a "Test-to-Stay" option for unvaccinated students will also be implemented starting on January 5th, 2022.

How is a "close contact" defined for Flushing students when it comes to possible exposure to COVID-19?

During the 2021-2022 school year so far, a "close contact" was defined as being within six feet or a positive case for 10 or more minutes. The new guidelines that will start on January 5th, 2022 define a "close contact" as being within three feet of a positive case for 15 minutes. That means that when the students return from winter break, the number of "close contacts" will probably increase.

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What happens when a student is deemed a "close contact?"

If a vaccinated student is deemed a "close contact," they will not have to quarantine unless they have symptoms.

If an unvaccinated student is deemed a "close contact," they will have two different options:

  • Unvaccinated close contacts that do not have symptoms will be eligible to take a rapid antigen test every day for seven days to stay in stay in school. Those tests will be available every day at the schools in Flushing and if the test is negative, the student will be able to attend classes and extracurricular activities. Those students will also have to wear a mask and keep an eye out for symptoms for 10 days.
  •  Unvaccinated close contacts that decide not to take the tests or wear a mask will have to quarantine from school for 10 days following exposure.

If you have students or family that attend Flushing Community Schools, click here for more details.

Source: Flushing Community Schools

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