Op-Ed: Why Every School Should Embrace a Virtual Learning Option This Year

Despite the fact that nearly 70% of students participated in some form of online education during the last academic year, many school districts are now neglecting to provide virtual learning options as COVID-19 cases surge. With the pandemic still looming larger than ever and numerous schools dropping crucial safety measures such as masking and social distancing, parents are left with limited choices.

Take, for instance, Laura Martinez, a concerned parent from Miami, FL, who expressed her frustration when her district decided against offering virtual learning this year: “I was taken aback. I expected the same flexibility that was available to us last year.” She is not alone in her sentiment. Every school district across the nation should maintain virtual education options until the pandemic is under control, especially until all children under 12 have access to COVID-19 vaccinations.

Some may argue that schools can be kept safe through strict adherence to masking, distancing, and adequate ventilation. They have a point. When these measures are followed, schools have proven to be relatively low-risk environments for children. In a recent article in the New York Times, Dr. Mark Thompson and Dr. Rachel Lee highlighted the importance of universal masking in schools. They stated, “While vaccination is the most effective way to prevent COVID-19, universal masking is a close second, ensuring that in-person learning remains safe and more productive than remote instruction, regardless of community infection rates.”

Their investigation into COVID transmission in North Carolina schools revealed that while 7,000 kids and adults tested positive, only 363 of the thousands quarantined went on to contract the virus. The doctors credited this low transmission rate to the mask-on-mask school environment. However, it’s crucial to recognize that while masks can significantly reduce transmission, they do not eliminate the risk entirely.

For many families, the benefits of in-person schooling—especially after a prolonged period of limited education—might outweigh the risks. Yes, the risk of COVID-19 remains, but many parents feel that the gamble is worth it, especially as more adults and teachers are vaccinated.

However, for children who are medically vulnerable or live with at-risk family members, even “low risk” is not acceptable. These children should not have to sacrifice their education due to health concerns. With some districts adopting a “mask optional” policy or even outright banning masks, the risk factor escalates. COVID-19 is spreading rapidly, and more children are being hospitalized than ever before.

If schools cannot provide a genuinely low-risk environment, they must offer virtual learning options as a viable alternative. The ongoing rise of COVID-19 cases is disheartening for everyone. I truly believed that this school year would be safer. It’s disappointing to see so many parents and officials dismiss essential safety protocols.

While some families may prefer virtual learning, most parents desire for their children to be back in the classroom, connecting with teachers and peers. However, this is still a global pandemic, and it’s crucial to consider all options for education.

Virtual education was a lifeline for many children last year, keeping them engaged and, most importantly—safe. This option needs to remain available this academic year as well. For more insights, check out this other blog post on home insemination.

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In summary, schools should prioritize offering virtual learning options for the upcoming year until the pandemic is effectively managed, particularly for those children who are at higher risk. The health and education of all students must come first.

Keyphrase: Virtual learning options for schools

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