The only way to be absolutely sure in what direction your district is going is to be actively involved.
Focus on Data
The nature of the pandemic and how organizations like the CDC and the NIH are responding to it, changes almost daily. For example, it was confirmed that young children are more susceptible to the virus than was originally reported.
A recent report by the American Academy of Pediatrics indicates that there has been a 90 percent increase in COVID-19 cases among children over the last 4 weeks.
As information changes, you need to be prepared. Honing in on what’s going on both locally and nationally will allow you to make a decision that is best for your child, especially if you live in a district where parents are allowed to make a choice about the type of learning platform that will be used.
As you are making a decision about what is best for your child, ask questions about sanitization, PPE for students, teachers and staff and contingency plans if someone in the district tests positive.
READ: Managing Your Child’s Asthma: 5 Things To Know For Back To School
Know Your Rights
The reality is that none of us could have foreseen or truly prepared for COVID-19. As it relates to the new school year, some families will have access to academic pods, tutors and/or nannies to assist with whatever educational system is in place.
Others may find that e-learning or hybrid learning can create a hardship, especially if remote work is not an option for a parent. Others may find that either due to their underlining health conditions or those of a child, sending a child ‘back’ to school is simply not a viable option.
Per the US Department of labor, “…caring for a child whose school or place of care is closed (or child care provider is unavailable) for reasons related to COVID-19” qualifies one for paid sick time. Make sure that you check first with your HR representative to ensure that you are eligible.
Although there are many uncertainties surrounding COVID-19 and the academic school year, parents should rest assured that they are not alone and that they are empowered.
Your child’s well-being is a priority and by learning as much as you can about COVID-19, you are impacting your community. You too can make an informed decision about the 2021-2022 school year.