As the state reopens this week, students should sharpen their pencils and treat themselves to a new backpack – in-person learning is back.
Schools can reopen safely for younger children who aren't eligible yet to be vaccinated for COVID-19, if they practice social distancing, masking and hand washing, according to a recent UCSF study.
The study scrutinized various learning hubs in San Francisco during the height of the pandemic last winter. The results showed "shockingly" low levels of COVID-19 transmission, and all hubs had robust safety protocols.
Researchers found that layering multiple precautions is the most effective in stopping the spread of COVID-19. Masks will most likely be required, particularly for younger, unvaccinated children.
Many school districts are already preparing to put those protocols in place when they reopen for full-in person learning next year, including the San Leandro Unified School District.
"We have the safety and hygiene pieces in place," said Spokesperson Kezia Moss. "We are queuing up the organization to be ready to be back to a school that looks similar to what we have done in the past, but has a much greater capacity to support students."
Some parents might be hesitant to return their unvaccinated kids to school in the fall. But researchers are confident that it will be safe as long as their school is taking the necessary precautions.
Related
