The following reflection was written and delivered by Post Falls resident, Jamie Esler, as part of Boise State University's "Idaho Listens" event held at the Hagadone Event Center in October.
An open letter from Idaho Teachers of the Year to school districts, state leadership, and our communities:
Idaho’s dramatic increase in COVID-19 cases presents a clear and present danger to the health of Idaho students, as well as their teachers and support staff. In addition, the shortcomings brought to light by the pandemic require swift and decisive action to ensure that our students have the best chance at success and our educators are appropriately supported.
As educators we are acutely aware of the value of in-person instruction. We prefer it and we know that many students learn better with a face-to-face dynamic. However, Idaho’s lack of collective strategy and response to the pandemic makes it difficult, if not impossible, to provide in-person instruction safely in most cases. If in-person instruction is Idaho’s top priority, then actions must be taken that will enable it to be done safely.
I worry that we re not doing enough to keep everybody safe : Idaho teachers pen letter asking for more safety measures kxly.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from kxly.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.