Berkeley Public Health Pushes For Reopening Schools

Berkeley CA

10 March, 2021

1:00 PM

Description

BERKELEY, CA — The Berkeley Public Health Department issued a statement Tuesday calling for the reopening of public schools for in-person instruction. BPH doesn't have the authority to order schools to reopen, but the agency says data showing schools can welcome students for in-person safely supports its reopening push. "With science and data showing that it is safe for all grades of public and private schools to open for in-person instruction, Berkeley Public Health urges schools to open as soon as possible," the statement said. The BPH's latest guidance follows calls to reopen elementary schools in October and middle and high schools in November. State guidelines require schools to post their reopening plans five days opening. State guidelines for reopening amid the pandemic include mask wearing and social distancing requirements along with measures to improve ventilation and encourage frequent hand washing.Berkeley Federation of Teachers President Matt Meyer did not immediately respond to request for comment on the BPH's statement. "We know that not every family will send their children to school. Not every teacher will return," BPH said. "We also know that kids don't just receive an academic education in schools, but also invaluable socio-emotional support. We know that each child's well-being affects an entire family. If schools aren't open already, they should open soon. It is sound public health."