As schools across the world, and within Costa Rica, face the reality of a return to on-campus schooling in some form or another, emotions on the subject can run quite high and opinions, even among researchers and scientific experts, can vary widely.
From our perspective as a school, we continue to research the evolution of the disease as well as follow closely the recommendations from, not only the Costa Rican Health Ministry, but from other researchers and experts around the world.
Today, I would like to share some sample research and thoughts with you in the hope that it helps you have new and varied perspectives on the virus and the concept of school reopening when the virus is still present.
Health and safety
Regarding the concerns of wearing masks and the potential, related health risks of mask wearing, I recommend listening to this journalistic report from National Public Radio on the topic and their analysis of the scientific research behind prolonged risk from wearing masks.
Emotional and Psychological Impact of Quarantine
Does a pandemic cause emotional and psychological stress that is of grave concern in children? The answer is- it depends! Parental emotional regulation and the maintenance of a safe home environment are primary factors that contribute to the level of negative impact on children. The following article provides guidance and additional links related to supporting positive long-term health for your child throughout the distinct stages of the pandemic.
Considerations Regarding Short and Long-Term Response to a Virological Crisis
When there is a circumstance that so strongly impacts our lives and that is, in so many ways, out of our direct control, it is wise to consider the short and long term impacts of the crisis as well as the emotional response it is recommended by experts to take when facing such apparent uncertainty. In this article, renowned Belgian virologist, Peter Piot, reflects on the COVID-19 pandemic.
Our Commitment as a School
One of the most commonly heard reflections from this time of crisis schooling is a re-commitment by families, and by society as a whole, to the importance of the incredibly challenging and essential work that is done each day by our professional educators and by our schools. We are fortunate in Futuro Verde to have an incredible group of highly-qualified and professional educators who have taken on the challenge of distance and online learning with the same enthusiasm and problem-solving nature that you have come to expect from a FV teacher! The ingredient currently missing from our learning program is, thankfully, not a lack of progression in learning, as is the case in too many schools around the country and the world, but instead a joint presence on campus during learning processes. Being together, though physically separate, is important for children’s mental health, academic progress and intellectual and social-emotional development.
For this reason, as soon as the health conditions permit, we plan to open our campus to students. The Futuro Verde campus reopening will be gradual and measured and will include the following of all health measures required or recommended by the Costa Rican Health Ministry.
We commit to the ongoing education of our students:
Online and through a distance format when that is required, through a blended learning model when on campus learning is allowed, and in a full on campus mode when the pandemic conditions permit.