COMMENTARY, JUNE 8, 2020, DEBRA DUARDO
Nothing would come as a greater relief than to welcome back more than 2 million students to Los Angeles County schools in coming months. That’s where they belong.
But when schools reopen, they will not look the same as they did before the pandemic-required shelter-in-place. Our country was a different place three months ago. Today:
- Protests over racial injustice have rocked the nation.
- Interaction with friends, neighbors and family has changed as the pandemic has shuttered gathering places — schools, churches and businesses.
It’s essential that we, as educators and administrators, consider the experiences endured by our students since campuses closed in early March as preparations get underway for a new school year. Everyone will need to adopt a new mindset to protect the physical and mental health of our young people.
Schools must recognize it’s vital to provide students with an environment that is friendly, supportive and caring. The trauma and stress of weeks in isolation must be expressed, acknowledged and addressed.
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