Bring students back to schools in July

Now that cautious reconsideration of restrictions are being considered, perhaps it is also worth considering the extension of the public school term into July. The benefits are exponentially inter-related.

Parents have been home schooling; children and parents alike might benefit from some time apart; while the children may benefit from augmented social interaction.

Families would likely reduce their holiday travel plans, thereby reducing the potential interactions and increased population densities in areas which have less health care capacity for COVID-19 related illness — should outbreaks occur through increased summer vacation travel.

Mitigate the stress associated with increased transient B.C. Ferries passengers, experienced by permanent residents living in ferry-dependent coastal locations.

Teachers could participate in the front line heroics demonstrated by the army of health-care professionals throughout our country, and garner the patriotic symbolism bestowed upon that working segment. Thousands in that segment have been working overtime.

Extending the school year may help students who by B.C. Education assessment may have fallen behind in their academic progress. While our competent army of teachers are doing their best online, perhaps an augmented in-class school year may assist those students who may have fallen behind in their studies.

Wayne Stremel Garden Bay