Everyone’s personal responsibility for successful school reopening

To the Editor;

Do I want to see kids going back to school? You bet! We can all see how difficult this COVID remote learning has been for kids and parents. I am awed and grateful for the huge efforts teachers, school staff and administrators are making to ensure the return to school is as safe as possible. But I also want the schools to stay open. We have seen schools and colleges around the country open, only to have to shut down again quickly after there is an “outbreak.” Why does this happen?

Perhaps it is magical thinking, that “COVID won’t get me!” Or perhaps it is lack of trust in the experts who are telling us this virus is very contagious and advising us to mask and distance. Or perhaps it is because many people value their right to do whatever they choose and not be told what to do about the health and safety of themselves or others. 

​We have recently seen how a few people who decided the recommendations didn’t apply to them at a Millinocket wedding cost one woman her life (who didn’t even attend the party) and has sickened over 80 people so far.  We will not escape the same fate unless we are all determined to work together for the best interest of our community and our children. 

I believe all people in this community care about our kids and want this school reopening to be successful. But it is only going to work and be safe for students and teachers if everyone takes personal responsibility not only to keep ourselves safe but also to protect others. Not just in school but outside of school too. That means not only teachers and administrators, but also food service employees, custodians, ed techs, bus drivers, parents and students. Everyone.

Wearing a mask during school hours will not be effective if after school kids get together with friends to shoot hoops without masks; or if teachers or parents or bus drivers go to social gatherings unmasked and without distancing.  

​I was dismayed this week to see a group of people, including some who are  directly involved in getting kids back to school, standing shoulder to shoulder and maskless when I saw them, laughing and chatting as if there never had been such a thing as COVID. They acted as though the state CDC recommendations for masks and distancing don’t apply to them. While they might well plan to wear masks during school time, there are no “school hours” and no “off hours” as far as the epidemic is concerned.

Let’s all remember that it matters if kids get back to school. It is a high priority. Ask yourself,  “I have the freedom of choice, so what choices can I make to ensure school reopenings are successful?”

Lesley Fernow, MD

Dover-Foxcroft