Former Chief of Neuroradiology at Stanford University Medical Center, Dr. Scott Atlas he told Fox News There are “zero excuses” to prevent children from returning to schools in the fall.
“There is practically no risk for children to contract something serious or die from this disease. Anyone who thinks that schools should be closed is not talking about children. It has nothing to do with the risk of children, “she said. “There is no rational reason or science to say that children transmit the disease significantly.”
Dr. Atlas noted that many American teachers are not in high-risk age groups and therefore should not be concerned. He also noted that those who are nervous or at high risk can take additional precautions.
“It is true that there are high-risk teachers and those teachers should be able to believe in their social distancing and their masks. They can teach using social distancing. And if they are still afraid, they can stay home. There is no reason to lock up children, “she said.
According to Dr. Atlas, closing schools and continuing online education would hinder children from a full learning experience that includes social interaction and hands-on teaching.
“Long distance learning is a failure,” he said.
Dr. Atlas also added that many other Western countries have successfully opened and operated schools during the pandemic.
“We are the only country that does not open schools. This is absurd, “he said. “Look at the science. I’m saying to use critical thinking and logic. “
Despite the skepticism of CDC Director Dr. Robert Redfield about the current status of COVID-19 along with the upcoming flu season, Dr. Atlas believes that keeping schools closed would be a serious policy error.
“This is the biggest problem of all. Once again, we are going to commit severe public policy regardless of the damage of public policy, “he said.” If we start acting out of fear and we are an outlier in this country, this country is over. “
“Either you believe in science or you don’t,” he added. “You cannot insist that you believe in science and then act against science.”
Earlier this month, the Trump administration announced that it could cut federal funding for schools that don’t reopen.
“In Germany, Denmark, Norway, Sweden and many other countries, SCHOOLS ARE OPEN WITHOUT PROBLEMS. Democrats think it would be politically bad for them if US schools open before the November election, but it is important for children and families. You can cut funding if it’s not open! Trump tweeted.
In Germany, Denmark, Norway, Sweden and many other countries, SCHOOLS ARE OPEN WITHOUT PROBLEMS. Democrats think it would be politically bad for them if US schools open before the November election, but it is important for children and families. You can cut funding if it’s not open!
– Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 8, 2020
Vice President Mike Pence and Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos pledged to reopen the schools.
“For the development of our children, our working families and our economy, we MUST open schools again!” the vice president wrote.
Coronavirus Task Force @WhiteHouse met today to discuss the impact of closed schools on millions of American families and the way forward to reopen America’s schools this fall. For the development of our children, our working families and our economy, we MUST open schools again! pic.twitter.com/PAVunK6KX5
– Mike Pence (@Mike_Pence) July 8, 2020
“We can safely reopen schools and ensure that learning continues,” DeVos tweeted.
Five pediatricians interviewed by @NBCNightlyNews agree that the benefits of being in school far outweigh the risks of # COVID19 for students. The 5 plan to send their children back to school in the fall. We can safely reopen schools and ensure that learning continues. https://t.co/bnRUB1S6vq
– Secretary Betsy DeVos (@BetsyDeVosED) July 14, 2020
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Jordan Davidson is an intern at The Federalist and recently graduated from Baylor University, where he majored in political science and studied journalism.
