Parents Discuss Back-to-School Concerns
As the number of COVID-19 cases surge across the nation, parents shared back-to-school concerns and insights with CCX News. Governor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department Education expect to provide guidance for fall schooling by July 27.
Parents Share Opposing Views
Becker Park in Crystal
Amelia Goins, a resident of Brooklyn Park, said if it’s not safe for a half day of school, then it’s not safe for a full day.
“I do not, with the little information we have, think it’s safe right now,” Goins said. “It only takes one kid to get ill. Then everyone goes back to lockdown for how long.”
But back-to-school concerns aren’t the only issues.
“How am I suppose to work full-time and teach full-time?” questioned Wendi Einberger McDonough. “All my kids have social needs. Without that social interaction, without structure, it really is not a good scenario. They need a one-on-one.”
Shavon Johnson’s kids attend schools in Brooklyn Center and said it’s difficult to support in-school learning.
“Kids carry a lot of germs,” Johnson said. “To spread that and bring that home, I don’t think it’s a good idea.”
Johnson suggests that parents should be given the option to do in-class or distance learning.
Some Students Want to Return to School
Local students we spoke with said they were not a fan of social distance learning and would rather be in school.
“All you got to do is wear a mask and carry hand sanitizer,” said Aniyrah Gorman, a student in Brooklyn Center.
When asked if Gorman was concerned of getting sick if in-school learning continues, she replied “no.”
Breck Academy eighth-grader Navaeh Rundlus also said she’s not worried about the spread of COVID-19.
“I’d rather prefer to go to school in the building because I can actually talk to my teachers face-to-face,” said Rundlus.
An informal survey by the Minnesota Department of Education shows a majority of respondents feel comfortable having their children return to in-person classes.
