Teachers’ union leaders say they are pleased with Biden’s sense of urgency and focus, but warn that the 100-day promise may be a goal rather than a fixed target.
Biden is expected to sign several executive actions on Thursday, his second day in office, to support the reopening goal and put in place a national strategy to get the coronavirus under control, but the measures do not stop schools from entering. a set time frame should not reopen.
One executive order will instruct the Departments of Education and Health and Human Services to provide clues for reopening to schools with a focus on masking, testing and cleaning. A separate presidential memorandum provides reimbursement to schools for the purchase of personal protective equipment by the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s First Aid Fund.
In an interview with reporters Wednesday, Carole Johnson, Biden’s coordinator for Covid tests, acknowledged that the reopening of the timeline might be necessary.
“The health and safety of students, educators, staff and families is of paramount importance. The administration will always be honest about the challenges we face, including how and or changes in the pandemic the reopening of schools or the capacity of schools to reopen could affect., ‘Johnson said.
Trade union leaders question the 100-day time frame
Union leaders describe a close working relationship with the Biden team, but argue that the 100-day goal is a major challenge.
“I’m on board with the goal, but I’m very worried about this new variant. None of this is done in isolation,” Weingarten said.
National Education Association president Becky Pringle said the 100-day promise sends a strong message that reopening schools is a top priority for Biden, but that it’s not about the days, it’s about the urgency of the matter. “
“It’s an aggressive plan, no doubt,” Pringle added, noting that “nothing educators want to do more than be safe again in person with their children.”
Congress is urged to provide the resources needed to reopen
Teachers’ unions and Democrats have long argued that the ability to open schools also depends on the resources available. Biden insists that Congress approve another $ 170 billion for K-12 schools, colleges and universities to help them function personally safely or facilitate distance education. In December, Congress approved $ 82 billion in aid to schools, which Biden said was a “down payment.”
The American Federation of Teachers is asking for five specific things that schools need to reopen: tools such as masks and cleaners to mitigate the spread of the virus in buildings, testing and contract detection, accommodation for teachers at risk, quick vaccinations for teachers, and honesty and transparency about the guidance.
Bechara Choucair, Biden’s choice to coordinate the vaccine, said on Wednesday that the government would appeal to the countries to be eligible for vaccine for teachers, along with first responders, grocery stores and people over 65.