It’s not safe yet

As an Newport News Public Schools parent, I am deeply concerned about the recently approved plan for hybrid learning.

First, families who are less concerned about COVID-19 are more likely to send students to school. They are also more likely to be lax about safety measures, increasing the likelihood of catching and spreading the virus. Second, families from more vulnerable populations may feel compelled to send children to school for economic/child care reasons. In Newport News, over 70% of those living in poverty are racial minorities. Minority groups are disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. Third, spending hours in classrooms will increase the likelihood of spread.

Creating a situation where students from more vulnerable populations will be indoors with students who are more likely to be spreaders is unconscionable.

Switching to a new model with new teachers will also disrupt learning. For some populations, introducing in-person learning makes sense. But for most students, this decision is baffling.

First, students in the hybrid model will experience synchronous learning only two days per week, compared to four with virtual. Second, even those who remain virtual could change teachers and classmates. How can a decision that puts lives at risk and significantly disrupts learning be correct?

My husband and I — healthy adults in our 30s — had COVID-19. We were sick three months ago but still experience occasional symptoms. This virus has significant and lasting impacts. Newport News Public Schools is making a serious mistake. Lives are at stake. I urge the School Board to act while there is still time.

Carol Minter, Newport News