As the public and school boards debate what model schools should use to reopen in the fall, they would do right by teachers, students and communities to seriously consider the July 5 article "U out to pinpoint hot spots for virus." Through the University of Minnesota's simulations of airflow in certain spaces, engineers found problematic issues with small classroom spaces, where the position of ventilation sources created "hot spots" for an increased risk of COVID-19 transmission.
While a U researcher suggests the data can be used to reorient classrooms to move teachers and students to low-risk spots in a room, how will school districts accurately map out such individualized airflow patterns in classrooms that vary in size and ventilation quality? Citing research from Portland State University, classrooms that typically seat 48 people were found to only accommodate six students safely. Many classrooms in the middle school where I teach are about 600 square feet and typically hold between 25 and 36 students. Using the classroom size in the Portland research as a guide, only about three or four students could be relatively safe in my classroom.
While the article suggests solutions such as installing higher-quality filters or portable air purifiers, these options seem impractical given budget-strapped districts and the time shortage to plan for such alterations. The low-tech option of opening windows to add ventilation also seems improbable once our Minnesota winter arrives. While mask-wearing could decrease exposure to virus droplets by 75%, that assumes the collective cooperation of school staff, students and families. Sending students back to school may be our best-intentioned impulse, but the nationwide reopening outbreaks of the last few weeks and the U of M's research should serve as a cautionary tale for us all.
Jodi Anderson-Wolhaupter, Brooklyn Park
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After attending my freshman year at my local brick-and-mortar school, I felt completely overwhelmed by the social pressures and constantly exhausted by a jampacked schedule. The extra stress that came with being in that environment impacted my focus on education. I struggled with mental health and my anxiety became worse while at school.
It was clear that the traditional school setting was not the best fit for me. The following year, I chose to enroll at Minnesota Virtual Academy. By switching to online school and finally learning in a setting where I felt comfortable, I could focus on academics and my mental health.
Traditional school is not for everyone, and that's OK. Sometimes taking a step back from the typical path can lead you to live the best life for yourself. For families considering alternatives to returning to a physical classroom this fall, I suggest giving online school a chance. It provides a safe learning environment where you can focus on your classes and preserve your health.
