SMUHSD Board - Please allow students to return normally to school for Fall 2020

Over the last four months, we've continued to learn a great deal following the necessary closure of our schools to flatten the curve against Covid19. Most thankfully, multiple credible studies have concluded that Covid19 is much less dangerous and less infectious among people under 20. And we've learned that many students are left behind and disconnected with distance learning. 

 

Dr. Scott Morrow, San Mateo County Health Officer, made a statement  on June 15, 2020 that "I want to see kids back in school. I also feel that it is very important that kids be allowed to be kids."   As parents, we agree. Our children need school - it is essential. Distance learning is not equitable and often incredibly taxing on families - making learning a chore instead of a joy. 

Please consider starting our SMUHSD schools normally with masks & screening upon entry. Allow them to participate in their sports and clubs. Allow them to engage in passionate discussions with their classmates. Show them that we are resilient and data driven - and that we know that the disconnect of distance learning, for many students, leads to isolation, suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety as well as learning gaps.  While having a distance option will be necessary for students and families with high risk, please have the rest of the students on campus, using all our spaces, and learning together, in person.