I'm a #teacher, so I've been following the conversations around #schoolsreopening amid the #COVID19 pandemic.

Here's something that isn't getting discussed enough :

No one is asking for a shift to virtual learning for the rest of human existence. It would only be FOR NOW.

1/

FOR NOW, it isn't safe to open schools unless you want to see a huge spike in virus cases. FOR NOW, virtual learning is a better option.

Is it the best method for delivering instruction? Of course not.

2/

My students, many of whom have learning difficulties, benefit more from face-to-face instruction. But you know what else they'd benefit from?

NOT GETTING THE VIRUS.

3/

At some point in the future, the pandemic will either be over or ease enough that we CAN safely open schools. WE ARE NOT THERE YET.

Opening schools is only going to prolong the pandemic and cause more sickness and death.

4/

And after we are forced to shut schools down again after a surge in cases, it will be even LONGER before we're able to actually reopen safely.

Virtual learning is more difficult for everyone: students, teachers, parents.

But it would only be FOR NOW.

Not forever.

5/

Maybe not even for the entire school year, if the country can get its act together.

Just FOR NOW.

And since this has been in my head the entire time I've been composing this, I'll leave it here: