NYC Announces Elementary School Reopening And Hybrid Learning Phase Out After Backlash

Topline

After facing widespread criticism for the decision to shut down the country’s largest school district amid rising coronavirus infections in the city while bars and restaurants remained open, Mayor Bill de Blasio (D) pivoted Sunday, announcing a reopening of elementary schools and a forceful push for more in-person learning. 

Key Facts

Crucial Quote 

“We feel confident that we can keep schools safe,” said the mayor. 

Key Background 

In-person classes were shut down earlier this month despite an extremely low positivity rate in New York’s schools. The city’s decision to close schools but keep bars and restaurants open (this part of reopening is dictated by Gov. Andrew Cuomo, not de Blasio) has angered many parents, particularly those who have to scramble to afford and arrange childcare. Many countries in Western Europe, such as France, have done the opposite.

What To Watch For 

When the schools reopen, testing will be increased from a survey of a random sampling of students and staff in each school building every month to weekly tests, according to de Blasio. 

Further Reading

“New York City To Close Public Schools After Less Than Two Months” (Forbes)

“New York City’s 3 Percent Problem” (The New York Times)

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