Distance learning is not as effective as instruction in the classroom, especially for elementary students.

Many public schools, including Tulsa Public Schools, have instituted distance learning rather than have students show up at school buildings.

This has posed many problems. Students are not as accountable when they are someplace else. Low-income students don’t get the advantage of a hot lunch or breakfast. Attention spans drift when the teacher is elsewhere. Socialization is absent. Low-income students may be a computer from their school but they may not have high-speed Internet access.

No one is making the argument that the levels of learning or achievement are the same in distance learning.

The goal for everyone should be a return to a normal routine after the Chinese coronavirus pandemic. Keeping kids out of school is a step in the wrong direction.

If you trust the statistics, the mortality rate for children and the virus is extremely low. Teachers who have medical issues should not be in the classroom but healthy teachers could operate normally if given the chance.

Parents should be taking a hard look at their choices because of this situation. Home schooling is a great option. Most of the time, students flourish in a home school environment with a parent who is devoted to their studies.

Christian schools should be considered during this pandemic for parents who want their children in class and not at home in front of a computer.

Some public schools are doing a good job of dealing with this situation and some are not. The primary consideration should be the welfare of the students and not political.