Schools and Staying Safe As COVID-19 Continues
Two years ago, schools closed their doors because of COVID-19 and students had their world overturned. Since then, we’ve learned a lot.
One of the most critical takeaways has been that, for most kids, in-person schooling is best. Research clearly indicates that remote learning (or even a hybrid model) has significant negative effects on children and parents' mental, emotional, social, and physical health.
That said, it should be remembered that some kids are thriving through remote learning.
While we all want our kids permanently back in schools we have to remain vigilant. COVID-19 is still spreading, there were more than 1.1 million cases recently reported in a single week in children.
But we can keep our kids safe and healthy. The tools available include vaccines for everyone who is eligible, handwashing, proper masking, physical distancing, and staying home when you’re not feeling well or displaying symptoms of COVID-19.
Using Those Tools
I know we’ve gone over this territory before but the reason we keep reiterating the importance of these tools is because they work. And they’re even more effective if everyone does their part.
Masks
The AAP recommends universal masking in school, with special attention to indoor masking to help stop the virus from spreading to those who may be at higher risk of getting sick. Spread of the virus has been observed more often in schools that did not require universal masking.
We talk more about masks here.
Physical Distancing
Even if students are fully vaccinated they should still remain at least 3 feet apart within classrooms when possible.
And whenever possible, schools should use outdoor spaces and unused indoor spaces for instruction and meals to help with distancing. Activities like singing, band and exercising, for example, are safest if done outdoors with students spread out.
Spike and Toody talk more about physical distancing here.
Air Purifying Systems
How are air purifying systems rated? There are a few key government agencies you should know about when it comes to the safety of health equipment
NIOSH - National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (part of the CDC)
OSHA - The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (part of the US Department of Labor)
FDA - Food and Drug Administration (part of the Department of Health and Human Services
We talk more about Air Purifying Systems here.
Continuous COVID Testing
Test to stay is one of the most effective tools for keeping kids in schools. Everyone should get tested. If possible, schools should follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Guidance for COVID-19 Prevention in K-12 Schools.
We talk a lot more about testing here:
Finally
If we all work together schools can be safe environments for learning where students can safely remain physically together. We just need to ensure that everyone who is eligible gets the COVID-19 vaccine, influenza vaccine and other routine childhood and adolescent vaccines. And, of course, this includes wearing a face mask, staying home when we are sick and doing what we can to keep others safe around us. If we all do our part, we all win.