As the Coronavirus (COVID-19) spreads through the United States, the impact on student instruction resulting from school closures will pose new challenges for teachers and administrators alike, such that we have not dealt with before.
Mirroring the steps other countries have taken to combat the spread of the virus, social-distancing policies are helping to drive down the number of new confirmed COVID-19 cases in places such as China. U.S. businesses have already begun to implement work-from-home policies as well as broad cancellations of large events nationwide.
Beginning last week, schools in the Philadelphia area, including Bucks, Chester and Montgomery Counties, closed their doors and implemented large scale cleaning procedures when a possible COVID-19 contamination may have occurred. As more individuals are tested, it is expected that the number of infected will rise in the United State and Pennsylvania, which means more possibilities for students and school staff to test positive for the virus or have been in contact with someone who has.
School districts are already preparing for school closures, with some districts informing students that a closure could last as long as 30 days, or more…pushing instruction well into the summer months.
How does this impact student learning and what can be done to lessen the disrupted instruction? Distance or online learning is a way to continue instruction, however, unless you are already enrolled in a cyber school environment, most schools, students and educators are not ready to quickly switch to online and distance learning models. Even where students have been issued laptops and tablets, there is no guarantee that they will have access to the internet at home. Some students don’t do well in a cyber environment as distance learning is not always effective for some when they lack proper supervision.
Collaboration and open communication between administrators, educators and school staff will be the best way to prepare for school closures and how to handle the possible disruption of student learning.
Implementing best practices and procedures will help prevent the spread of COVID-19. The CDC recommends the following:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Resources for the education community regarding COVID-19 can be found at:
https://www.education.pa.gov/
https://www.ed.gov/coronavirus
https://www.cdc.gov/
As always, please feel free to contact the Keystone Teachers Association at 717-763-1168 should you have any questions.
