Dear Editor,
On Sunday, January 9th, Stabroek News reported that the Guyana Teachers’ Union has advised its members to take an “isolation day” from Monday. Are 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 does 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 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.
Yours faithfully,
Sherlock Depoo
