Utica Community Schools is the largest school district in Macomb County and it is opting to start mask optional for fall semester. Superintendent Robert Monroe said it depends on parents and the choices they and their students make as to whether that can continue.

UTICA, Mich. – The Utica Community Schools (UCS) district said it is “leveraging partnerships” to increase the availability of vaccines to its staff while it moves toward more in-person instruction amid the coronavirus pandemic. Partnerships with the Sterling Heights Fire Department and Henry Ford Medical Center allow district staff additional opportunities to register to receive the vaccine, the district said in a news release Thursday. The district is also working with local pharmacies including Walgreens, CVS, Rite Aid, Meijer and Kroger to increase availability of vaccines for staff. The remaining K-12 students are scheduled for an increase of in-person learning the week of March 15. Eligibility for district staff to receive COVID-19 vaccinations was opened on Jan. 11.

UTICA, Mich. Families who want their Utica Community Schools students to return to school completely virtually can now register. The full virtual academy is offered through Utica Community Schools. The academy is completely online and open to families seeking a full virtual option for their children this fall. The UCS Virtual Academy will provide the high standards of quality instruction and support that our community expects and will be delivered by a UCS highly qualified teacher, Superintendent Dr. Christine Johns said. Officials said students who enroll in the academy will get a district-owned device.

UTICA, Mich. – On Monday a contract agreement was ratified between Utica Community Schools and the Utica Education Association. The new agreement with the 1,450 UCS teachers runs through June 30, 2022. The Director of School and Community Relations Tim McAvoy released the following statement:"Today, a contract agreement was ratified between Utica Community Schools (UCS) and the Utica Education Association (UEA). The new agreement with the 1,450 UCS teachers runs through June 30, 2022 and provides stability for the school district, allowing them to focus on the needs of their students. Across our community, teachers, staff members, and district leaders have embodied leadership and service in the midst of a very difficult time.