Should schools reopen?
Parents and educators face numerous new obstacles and questions going into this school year. Will classes take place entirely online? Will students who depend on in-person school services be able to go? Will PPE and Engineering Controls be enough to protect their health?
In June, the SC Department of Education released their AcceleratED Task Force Guidance and Recommendations for 2020–21 School Year. South Carolina’s Dedication to Education website acknowledges that we’re all in an imperfect situation:
“We understand that these are not perfect solutions for every student, family, teacher or school district. In a pandemic, perfect solutions don’t exist.”
Working toward COVID-19 Solutions
So how can we make the best of the situation at hand? The first step is to listen to the advice and analysis of health experts and educators regarding when we can begin a return to school as safely as possible. The next step is to implement safety controls based on CDC guidelines to make our schools as safe an environment as we can—for students, teachers, staff, and families.
While wearing masks is important in this fight against COVID-19, physical changes to students’ learning environment are also recommended for increased safety. Partitions on desks and cafeteria tables, in reception areas and nurses’ offices, and even placed as room dividers can further help reduce the spread of contaminants between people—especially where staying 6 feet apart isn’t possible.
Let Us Help
At KTM Solutions, we believe that physical barriers don’t have to present communication barriers. Our clear partitions are designed for visibility and community—even while social distancing. If you’re looking for help making your space safer and meeting CDC and OSHA guidelines, contact us and let our engineers develop a custom solution.
Comments