As education workers and supporters, we agree that the following criteria be must be in place to safely reopen schools before an effective vaccine is widely available:
Controlled community transmission: At least 24 days of zero reported new local community cases
Rigorous testing and tracing: Widespread, accessible, and frequent screening, testing, tracing, and isolation of new cases
Thorough protection and prevention: Rigorous cleaning and disinfection, proper ventilation, effective PPE provided for all students and staff, and remote work and learning for the most vulnerable students and staff
Consistent social distancing: Student and staff schedules are designed to ensure small, stable groups with at least 6-feet between all people at all times
Comprehensive student supports: All schools are staffed with at least one nurse or other health care provider per 750 students (1:225 for medically fragile students) and one counselor per 250 students, to train, teach, and implement public health protocols and trauma-informed practices
Proactive school closures: Plans to close schools and implement equitable remote learning if there are increased cases in the local area, or a newly diagnosed case among staff, students, or their families.
