99 Cavalier, 2.2 Valve Cover Gasket

I am getting ready to replace the gasket on my wife's car but now I'm being told that I need to also remove the head. I didnt think that the head needed to be removed to replace the cover but before I rip it off then find out I need to send it out for resurfacing, I wanted to get the opinion of others.

remove the head for a valve cover gasket ???? holy crap , not gonna happen with my little 2.2...........lol. The valve cover will come off before the head bolts will come out .