NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — While schools across the country and in Middle Tennessee are starting in-person classes, many teachers feel that it's just not safe to back. Now, they want lawmakers to do more to protect not only them but students, as well.
The Metropolitan Nashville Education Association is one of many teachers unions that’s pushing for more protection for teachers and students. They feel a statewide mask mandate needs to be in place, along with more funding and support – that means fixing broken ventilation systems, along with bringing in more teachers to lower class size and have a nurse staffed at all times.
According to the American Federation of Teachers, 210 of its members have died since the pandemic started. Three of those deaths happened just in the past few weeks, since the school year started.
In Tennessee, the Department of Education’s COVID-19 dashboard now reports 243 cases among school staff across the state.
Rutherford County has 24 staff members with COVID-19, while Sumner County has 10 and Williamson County has seven. Those are all the latest numbers as of last week.
Metro Schools hasn't reported any cases to the state, since they are still learning remotely, but district is letting parents decide by next week if they want their kids back in person.
What is the rebound?
As Middle Tennessee works to rebound from the impact of the Coronavirus, we want to help. Whether it's getting back to work, making ends meet during this uncertain time, or managing the pressure, we're committed to finding solution. In addition, we want to tell your stories of hope, inspiration, and creativity as Middle Tennessee starts to rebound.
Find more in the sections below
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Safely Back to School
How schools are changing, and what you can do to help your child get the most from their education, in-person or virtual -
Making Ends Meet
Find help on topics from rent to food to new belt-tightening techniques -
Managing the Pressure
Feeling isolated or frustrated? Learn ways to connect with people virtually, get counseling or manage your stress. -
Doing What’s Right
Keep track of the way people are spending your tax dollars and treating your community. -
State of Education
Find ways to cope with the new normal around schools and celebrate students’ success in the age of Coronavirus. -
We're Open Y'all
Support local businesses doing their best to stay open and serve their customers during Covid.
