Confusion and turmoil in Chicago as some schools try to reopen

Vaughn Occupational High School in Chicago

Chicago public schools are opening today for some students despite few parents signing up to return and major disagreements with the teacher's union. Most high school students are remaining home in Chicago, with only diverse learners and preschoolers scheduled to return today. Last week only 50% of the teachers that were supposed being in the school buildings actually reported for work. The administration of CPS then said that if teachers didn't show up they wouldn't get paid. On the other hand in many schools only 30% or less of the students actually registered to show up when their school reopened. In some schools only one student signed up to come back. It is unclear at this point how the unions will respond to the Chicago Public Schools administration insisting that schools reopen. There could be a strike or other actions. In addition, some school nurses in the city have said that the buildings are not safe for students or staff. In general, the entire situation seems quite chaotic and is occurring when there are still large numbers of cases of the virus and in the city of Chicago there is a stay at home advisory.

Question: do you think schools should reopen under these circumstances?

Vaughn High was the first Chicago school to close due to COVID-19. Today, it’s among CPS buildings that will reopen to students for the first time since March.

With CPS students returning to schools starting Monday, parents weigh kids’ safety against educational needs: ‘It’s a horrible situation to be in’

Scores of nurses with Chicago Public Schools say reopening buildings is still unsafe