The headline of a New York Times report published on its website on Wednesday was teased online about its headline that makes it seem like teachers across the country are happy without teaching at all.
“Teachers are cautious of going back to class and of online instruction too,” said the headline.
Alex Berenson, a former newspaper reporter and skeptic of coronavirus blockages, took a screenshot of the headline and tweeted, “Hey, at least they came out and said it: just pay for doing nothing.”
The coronavirus and government response have become a political turning point at every turn, and where you stop at closings, school reopens and even wearing masks can be an indicator of your political beliefs.
Conservatives have been critical of teacher unions and describe them as little more than an arm for the Democratic Party. These unions insist that the health of their teachers and students remains their top priority.
The American Federation of Teachers, which represents 1.7 million school employees, issued a resolution on Tuesday saying it will support any local chapter that decides to strike over reopening plans.
Randi Weingarten, the union president, criticized President Trump for pressuring schools to reopen even as the virus continues to rise.
“We will fight on all fronts for the safety of our students and their educators,” said Weingarten. “But if the authorities do not protect the safety and health of those we represent and serve, as our executive council voted last week, nothing is off the table.”
The Times report said that Trump and Education Secretary Betsy DeVos are “distrusted by many educators.”
The White House has repeatedly urged schools across the country to reopen in the fall, warning that the consequences for children and parents outweigh the risks of spreading the disease.
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Berenson tweeted earlier this month: “I realize that teacher unions hate @realDonaldTrump much more than they care about children, but it would be wise to consider the consequences of the game they are playing here.”
Associated Press contributed to this report.
