1. Right now, the main problem with every plan to reopen schools safely is lack of money to implement it well. I will be writing more about this in coming weeks. A massive infusion is likely needed from a variety of public and private sources, national and local.

2. That said, it is striking to me that we aren't on the same page as a nation on physical school being an essential service, given what we know about how most children are being negatively affected by the shutdown, and how the most vulnerable kids are losing even more ground.

3. I've reported this and will continue to repeat: Every admin I talk to is planning to allow high-risk teachers and students to continue remote learning. The interests of these groups and the overall system are aligned, as fewer bodies in buildings means more distance for all.

4. Last thought for now: Among our brave essential workers are doctors, nurses and health staff daily coming into close contact with the virus; train conductors and bus/taxi drivers who get physically close to many random members of the public; grocery store and bank workers...

5. Delivery people; child care providers; even some news reporters who are out on their beats covering mass protests, political rallies, and more.

Schooling, in person, is essential for a functioning democracy, society and economy.