30 years as a classroom biology educator. We went full virtual learning in March then wife and I were laid off.
I have no intention of entering any classroom as a substitute or contract employee until there is a vaccine or the case numbers plummet. There is just too much risk. While we are in a bit of a tough spot, I’m thankful I’m not forced to enter any school soon. I think we are going to lose a bunch of teachers to COVID and I don’t plan to be one of them.
I have 2 college students. One at Occidental in LA and another at University of Utah in SLC. Oxy announced they are full on line for first semester (still charging full rate which is utter bullshit). How does a theatre/biochemistry double major perform or do lab work? What the hell is their 800 million dollar endowment for then?
University of Utah is going mostly live so far. I really kind of hope they go online first semester. I’m worried about my wife and I, we are in high risk categories particularly her. I’d just rather the four of us lock down in the woods in Aspen Park.
Payback. - don’t take any offense, in my entire career in 4 schools, 3 countries, 30 years Ive only worked for one principal that was competent, fair, and had teachers backs. The rest were at best mediocre in ability to plan, manage crises, and care for a staff. I think even less of school boards.
If I were charged with figuring a plan that must include live education, it would have to be hybrid. 25-50% of the kids in school at any time. You break teaching teams into pods and they are self contained, not interacting with the other pods in any way including passing periods. There would be 2 schedules for students, morning or afternoon. Utilize all big spaces (gyms) to create alternative classrooms spacing people out, no more than 8-10 students in any classroom. There are some project based things kids can really do at home...with parents too. We did a solar oven contest as an example.
No lunch services at all. Kids on free/reduced lunch can pick up pre made food packs. When they arrive, eat outside 10 feet apart (either breakfast or lunch) then go to work.
No bussing of any kind. Parents must transport, period. They are many on line apps that help educators with technology. while it has many holes, a program like Amplify allows for a computer based delivery.
You isolate, sterilize, reduce density and take care of your staff. It is NOT just about the kids. No school runs without teachers. They are on the front lines. Everything else is secondary. The best educational leaders truly understand that.
You want to cause emotional problems in younger children, see what happens when veteran teachers they love die when they contract Covid from one of the students. Worse yet is if your kids bring it home and either you or your wife dies. That will fuck up any kid for life far worse than being away from their friends For a few months longer. Kids need emotional support from quality parents. This isn’t going to be easy but what are your choices?
I really feel for kids in poverty with abusive parents in family crisis.
Wear the fucking masks!