A Huge Price to Pay

Summary

Dr. Deborah M. Vereen argues that reopening schools for in-person learning too hastily amidst the pandemic is risky and could lead to severe consequences, including the necessity to close schools shortly after reopening, further prolonging societal suffering and delaying recovery.

Abstract

Dr. Deborah M. Vereen, a retired teacher and school administrator, expresses her deep concern about the push to reopen schools for in-person learning. She believes that the data indicating the persistent spread of COVID-19 in many parts of the United States should be taken as a clear sign that such a move would be premature and dangerous. Vereen warns that ignoring the precise data could result in a swift closure of schools after reopening, due to the potential health risks to children and school staff. She emphasizes the need to prioritize the safety of students, educators, and school employees through continued virtual learning until it is unequivocally safe to return to traditional school settings. Vereen calls on those with political power to make educated decisions that value the health of citizens over economic gains, highlighting the moral imperative to protect the most vulnerable members of society.

Opinions

Reopening schools prematurely is a reckless decision that could lead to immediate closures and exacerbate the spread of COVID-19.
The current pandemic data suggests that it is not yet safe for students and school personnel to resume in-person learning.
The health of children, educators, and school staff should be the primary concern, taking precedence over economic interests.
Virtual learning should continue as the primary mode of education until data confirms it is safe to return to schools.
Politicians and decision-makers must use their influence to prioritize public health over the desire to boost the economy by reopening schools.
The author views her individual voice as insufficient to effect change and calls for collective action and responsibility from those in positions of power.
Dr. Vereen's mission is supported by her professional background as an educator and school administrator, and she encourages engagement with her work through her website and YouTube channel.

I believe that schools that reopen in-person learning too quickly will suffer consequences.

I recently published a thought provoking story that I wrote called

“Reopening Schools Is A Game of Chance”.

Here is the link:

It is my absolute belief that reopening in-person schools prematurely to permit students and school personnel to attend and to work is far too risky. To me, all of the data that are continuously communicated to the public affirms this. More specifically, the pandemic has failed to slow in many regions of the United States. Unfortunately, is has also accelerated in many states.

Absolutely no good will come of such a reckless, thoughtless, misguided decision.

If school leaders and decision makers fail to heed all of the information embedded in all of the precise data and open their school doors, I fear the outcome with a trembling heart and with eyes filled with tears. I believe this will result in the need to abruptly close these school within a very short period of time after opening them because the health of children and school employees will likely be adversely impacted. Additionally, I believe all of this will ultimately prolong all manner of suffering throughout every sector of our society and extend the overall process of national recovery.

Our children and young people as well as all of the adults who assume leadership roles in our schools, those who serve as teachers, and other individuals who are employed in them in varied capacities must be protected with the highest degree of integrity that is possible.

It is also my adamant belief that virtual learning within the home must continue until data show that it is, indeed, safe for traditional schools to reopen.

My voice is not enough to impact this area because it is less than a whisper that echoes in the wind.

Those who possess political power must use it to positively influence the educational decisions that must be made.

Just Stop It

Vocal politicians need to stop advancing their economic agenda connected to fully reopening cities and states. This is deeply connected to what those who advocate for in-person schools to open want to happen. These heartless individuals must STOP putting pressure on school leaders by intimidating them to place students and educators back in physical learning environments so that the economy receives a boost because of this choice to do so.

These leaders must fine tune their attention to keeping our citizens safe.

The health of our most precious young members of our society is more valuable than the economic growth within our society. The health of all of the adults committed to educating and supporting them at school is more valuable than financial power and gain.

Here’s my golden ticket that helps me accomplish my mission.

A Huge Price to Pay

I believe that schools that reopen in-person learning too quickly will suffer consequences.

Reopening Schools Is A Game of Chance

What’s the rush?

Just Stop It