×

WNMU-TV aids online learners during pandemic

MARQUETTE — With the threat of COVID-19 closing schools, WNMU-TV at Northern Michigan University is working with Upper Peninsula school superintendents and educators to provide alternative options for online learning.

WNMU-TV will modify its main-channel content beginning Monday to broadcast special educational content for students in grades 6-12.

PBS WORLD will be available on WNMU-TV Channel 13 between noon and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday through June. WORLD features a variety of educational programs related to science, language, history, civics and music.

“Along with the broadcasts, teachers, students and families can access information about the programs and resources that engage children in activities directly related to content found on the shows at PBSLearningMedia.org,” said Eric Smith, WNMU-TV general manager, in a news release.

Smith reminds families with younger children that PBS Kids programs are available 24/7 on its second channel, 13.2. The PBSKIds.org website has supplemental learning activities that can provide enrichment learning for preschool and early elementary students.

“We’re trying to provide parents and students with learning opportunities that extend beyond what they would normally get at school, yet are rigorous and of high quality,” Smith said.

Information on PBS WORLD can be found at https://worldchannel.org/at-home-learning/, while details on the schedule can be found at https://worldchannel.org/schedule/.

DNR reducing camping fees

To help campers feel confident about keeping their summer plans in the books, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources is waiving reduced-stay fees through Oct. 31.

Reduced-stay fees generally are assessed when customers cancel or modify a camping reservation at Michigan state parks and recreation areas and the four state forest campgrounds that accept reservations. The fees are incremental and determined by the length of time a reservation has been held and the number of eligible nights canceled, based on a sliding modification/cancellation formula.

For the majority of this year’s camping season, the DNR will waive reduced-stay fees regardless of how long camping reservations were held. The nonrefundable reservation fee — $8 for reservations made online and $10 for those made through the call center — and $10 cancellation fee still will be assessed.

Customers who already have canceled their camping reservations and paid the reduced-stay fee will receive a refund automatically, processed through the customer’s original payment method.

For information about camping, overnight lodging facilities and shelter reservations, email DNR-Reservations@Michigan.gov.

More cancellations announced

Several local groups have canceled meetings because of the COVID-19 crisis.

The Negaunee Beautification Committee has had to put its first meeting of the year on hold, but plans are being made to continue the annual Marigold Mania in Miners Park after the issue social distancing has been resolved.

The committee said the need for volunteers still remains, and efforts will be made to involve students and helpers to again beautify parks.

Also, the 1844 ore cart planters still are on the calendar for a June date. The NBC thanked Kevin Bell, Negaunee High School industrial arts teacher, and wood shop students Jason Waterman and Jesse Ossenheimer for their help in making four new carts.

To volunteer, call Anna Mattson at 906-475-5058 or visit its Facebook page.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has canceled the April 22 meeting of the Eastern Upper Peninsula Citizens’ Advisory Council, which was to have been held at the Luce-Mackinac-Alger-Schoolcraft Health Department Building in Newberry. The session will not be rescheduled.

Christie Mastric can be reached at cbleck@miningjournal.net.

Newsletter

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper *
   

Starting at $4.62/week.

Subscribe Today