STURGIS – Questions about Sturgis Public Schools' quarantine policy were asked to the Board of Education Monday night.

During the Board's study session, Stephanie Patrick shared that she learned the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services announced last week they are leaving the enforcement of quarantining up to the local Health Departments. In addition, the Michigan Attorney General declared that health department quarantine rules are not enforceable by law, but are suggestions. The exception would be if the local health department receives a public health order for COVID.

Patrick says he called the Health Department and there is no PHO at this time. Patrick says both of her children have been quarantined this year, but never had symptoms of COVID. Patrick says her daughter is finishing up a quarantine, and was not allowed to do her state testing. She is not only behind in schools but also must redo the testing. Her son just got close contacted and will miss the rest of the JV baseball season. Patrick says neither of her children had symptoms. The two people they were in close contact with did not have symptoms, but tested positive.

Sturgis Superintendent Dr. Art Ebert says he will be talking with the Health Department on Wednesday to get some clarification on quarantine guidelines and what the District is and isn't able to do.