As COVID-19 spreads, the American Federation of Teachers believes a national school closing is inevitable and is calling on all AFT K-12 leaders and members to prepare for it. Already thousands of schools have been shut down; the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended against gatherings of more than 50 people; and the president has said to avoid groups of more than 10 people. The American Federation of School Administrators has also called for a shutdown.
The AFT is working constantly to help our members and the people they serve navigate this virus, and buffer against the economic impacts. We have been focusing on the health and safety of our K-12 teachers and staff and the economic impact this will have on our members and our nation.
We are also fighting to make sure adequate supports are in place for the students our members serve, including services for medically fragile students and other vulnerable children; an emergency support plan for all first responders and healthcare workers to support child care and other needs; access to appropriate testing and care; feeding programs; and learning packets and specific guidance for online learning.
These are unique and challenging times, and information on COVID-19 is constantly evolving. Please check back for updates as we learn more about national, state and local responses to this pandemic.
