Dear Families and Friends of CultureWorks,
In light of recent updates from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and the Ottawa County Health Department, we are making some revisions to our COVID-19 safety guidelines. Throughout the pandemic, we’ve followed the guidance and recommendation of our public health officials, and have been consistent with the safety precautions of our local public schools. Ottawa County’s infection rates have been on a steep decline over the past few weeks, and both Holland and West Ottawa schools have made masking optional, with Black River following suit on March 2. We’re anticipating updated guidance from the CDC very soon as well, as our countrywide rates also decline.
After thoughtful consideration with our staff, Student Advisory Council, and instructors, we’ve decided to make masks optional at CultureWorks, beginning on March 7. We’re not aware of any current students who are in the high risk category for COVID-19, but if that is the case for you (or your student), or if you’re concerned about others in your household who are high-risk, please let us know. For the time being, we’ll continue to require masks in our van, due to the close proximity of students in that space.
Our Student Advisors have noted that whereas masks are optional in their schools, many are still choosing to wear them because that feels most safe still in a world that feels perpetually uncertain. Another student who is fully vaccinated and has already had COVID-19 noted that sometimes the choice not to wear one has to do with previous (and recent) exposure. We want all students to feel comfortable, no matter their reasons for choosing to wear, or not wear, a mask. For convenience, we will continue to keep masks onsite for those who want one.
Something important to note: For us to do this as safely as possible, please do not send your child to CultureWorks if they are experiencing any symptoms of Covid 19, the common cold, or the flu.
This change will go into effect on Monday March 7. Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns. Please refer to the following resources, which have informed our updated policy:
Link to Data Hub for Ottawa County
Ottawa County Epidemiology Report 2/24/22 (This is updated weekly and newest version is hyperlinked on the above Data Hub page)
Updated Masking Guidance from MDHHS (Explains that we are in a post-surge recovery phase, with masking still recommended for high-risk congregate settings like nursing homes and prisons, and encourages vaccine boosters)
