Now more than ever our students need consistency, sustenance, and connection

Jan 11, 2022 Letters

Dear Editor,

Kaieteur News – Please allow me space in your letters’ column to share my opinion on the GTU call to its members to stay away from schools from this Monday.
Sections of the media have reported that the Guyana Teachers Union has advised its members to take “isolation day” from Monday. Is the GTU acting to further a political interest or are they trying to protect the safety of its members? If it is a question of safety, then the data do not support the GTU actions. According to the New York Times (2021), several peer reviewed studies confirm that when safety protocols are in place, students and staff are safer in schools. When school infection rates are compared to the infection rates in communities where students live the infection rate is higher in the communities. There is no scientific evidence that supports a contrary position.
The students who are at a greater disadvantage when schools go remote are lower income families. Numerous studies which include the American Psychological Association (2020) confirm that lower income families suffer the most when learning is remote. Another study that was published in the Journal, Educational Researcher (2021) concludes “Social, emotional, and academic well-being is higher for students attending school in person versus remotely.” There is a preponderance of evidence that supports keeping children in school.
So the question comes back to what is motivating the GTU to call for teachers to stay away from schools? Can the GTU tell the Guyanese people who their public health advisers are? Can they point to scientific studies that support their call for teachers to stay away from schools? Can they please tell us if parents support this call?
I offer this advice to the GTU. Encourage your members to get vaccinated. Ensure staff and students to wear masks. Have teachers do morning screening before students enter the school. Students who exhibit symptoms should be asked to return home and only come back after they are free of symptoms. Encourage students to social distance during lunch and breaks. Encourage staff and students to get tested regularly. Do the right thing, GTU. Now more than ever our students need consistency, sustenance, and connection.
Sincerely,
Sherlock Depoo

Latest News

Now more than ever our students need consistency, sustenance, and connection

Related

Similar Articles

The Glenn Lall Show | December, 2nd, 2024

Follow on Tik Tok @Glennlall

THE BLUNT OF THE DAY

Sports

Kellman’s 3-goal brilliance inspires Sparta Boss’ title victory

Bossalina wins feature event at Rising Sun Turf...

GBBFF boss reflects on milestones and leadership...

National stars shine in GCF End of Year Chess...

Two more young cricketers benefit from Project...

Tonight: Sparta Boss goes up against Bent Street...

Features/Columnists

The PPP is in self-destructive mode

Forget Begging Rich Nations: Caribbean Countries Should Act to Save Themselves

A good year, interesting one

Publisher’s Note

Weekend Cartoon

Bridge Watch

Demerara Harbour Bridge

> Berbice Bridge […]

Now more than ever our students need consistency, sustenance, and connection

Share this:

Related

Similar Articles

The Glenn Lall Show | December, 2nd, 2024

Follow on Tik Tok @Glennlall

THE BLUNT OF THE DAY

Sports

Features/Columnists

Publisher’s Note

Weekend Cartoon

Bridge Watch

Demerara Harbour Bridge

> Berbice Bridge […]