Thousands of students across Metro Detroit are preparing to head back to school next week. As the first day approaches, many families are in a last-minute scramble to get their children ready.

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The Jackson Road employment office is collecting school supply donations in its lobby between 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays until Aug. 15.

Students are heading back to school in Michigan.

Students are heading back to school in Michigan.

Mostyn Community Development is providing more than 1,000 back-to-school supplies for Metro Detroit students, including 150 free basketballs donated by the Detroit Pistons

The president of the Michigan chapter spoke with Local 4 about the key factors pediatricians say need to be considered. We have to invest in schools, Swindell said. There are staff and teachers in the school that will be susceptible, and will be susceptible to getting quite sick, Swindell said. Distancing recommendationsOne of the big differences we think with children is that we can be a little more flexible (with) what that distance is between children, Swindell said. Wearing masksIn terms of wearing masks, it depends on the students.

Gretchen Whitmers return-to-school plan was a lot for educators and parents to take in, but now that theyve digested the major points, Local 4 asked them what they think. Theres plenty of discussion surrounding how social distancing will work when students return in the fall, as well as face coverings and bus capacity. Detroit Public Schools Superintendent Nikolai Vitti tweeted Tuesday, I appreciate the Return to Learn Task Force recommendations. We will make a few adjustments to align with the requirements to submit our plan in advance of the deadline. We believe the association will eventually agree with our position.You can hear from more superintendents and parents in Steve Garagiolas full video above.

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