As we embark on a new school year, it’s concerning to see that many school districts across the country are not providing virtual learning options despite the ongoing pandemic. Last year, the CDC reported that nearly 70% of students participated in some form of online education, with about 45% beginning the year with a fully virtual option. Given the current rise in COVID-19 cases and the reduction of safety measures in many schools, it’s essential that all districts offer virtual alternatives.
Take, for instance, a parent from Dallas, TX, named Lisa Carter, who expressed her shock when her local school district announced there would be no virtual learning options this year. “I thought they would maintain the same choices as last year,” she stated. I share her sentiment: every school in America should continue to provide virtual options until the pandemic is under control, particularly until all children under 12 can receive COVID-19 vaccinations.
Some may argue that schools can be safe with stringent masking, social distancing, and proper ventilation. While it’s true that these measures can make schools relatively safe environments, they cannot eliminate the risk entirely. Doctors highlighted this in a recent article for The New York Times, stating that universal masking is a key factor in maintaining safety in schools. Their study of COVID-19 transmission in North Carolina schools found that, while there were cases, the rate of transmission remained low due to strict mask adherence.
While many families are willing to risk in-person education, particularly as vaccinations have increased among parents and teachers, this doesn’t apply universally. For children who are medically vulnerable or live with at-risk family members, even minimal risk is unacceptable. They deserve access to education without the threat of bringing a virus home.
Moreover, with numerous districts opting for “mask optional” policies, the in-school environment is no longer low risk. The reality is that many children are currently facing serious health threats due to COVID-19, and schools need to adapt by providing virtual options.
It’s disheartening that the pandemic continues to disrupt our lives. Many of us had hoped for a safer school year, yet the response from some parents and leaders has been perplexing, especially regarding basic safety protocols like mask-wearing.
While a portion of families may prefer virtual learning, most parents desire their children to be in school, engaging with teachers and peers. However, we must acknowledge that we are still in the midst of a global pandemic. Virtual education previously allowed many children to continue learning and stay connected, and it must remain an option for this school year.
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Summary:
In light of rising COVID-19 cases and inadequate safety measures in schools, it is crucial for all school districts to offer virtual learning options this year. While in-person education has its benefits, families with medically vulnerable children need the security that virtual education provides. The pandemic is ongoing, and schools must adapt to protect all students.
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Op-Ed, Virtual Learning, COVID-19, Education, School Districts, Online Education, Pandemic Response
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