No, The CDC’s Guidelines About Schools Aren’t Final

There’s a long way to go before the doors open in August

CDC released guidelines this week for reopening schools, to a shocked reaction. File photo.

At times like this, I question the benefit of social media. All it takes is one meme, one posted thought and everyone freaks out. The problem is that even facts can cause unnecessary fear without the proper context. And that’s the case with the CDC’s guidelines released this week.

Yes, the Centers for Disease Control updated a list of guidelines this week on what steps schools need to take to deal with COVID-19. Did you notice something missing in that sentence? This is not an instruction guide on what to do in the fall, winter or next year. It even says in the report’s headline that this is “CDC Activities and Initiatives Supporting the COVID-19 Response and the President’s Plan for Opening America Up Again.” Multiple times through the 60-page document, it mentions steps needed in order to open right now or remain open. If you don’t believe me, read it here for yourself. The school material starts on pg. 44. A lot can change between now and the end of July, so let’s take a breath and stop panicking for just a minute. This document has been updated multiple times and will be updated a couple more at least between now and the start of school.

And hey, speaking of school, it’s worth pointing out that the CDC doesn’t determine education policy for the…