NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF/AP) — New guidance from President Donald Trump’s administration declares teachers to be “critical infrastructure workers.”
Once someone is classified as an essential worker, they could be told they must still go to work even if they’ve been around someone who tested positive for COVID-19 as long as they don’t show symptoms. Keeping teachers without symptoms in the classroom raises the risk that they will spread the respiratory illness to students and fellow employees.
This week, Gov. Bill Lee gave his nod of approval to the six Tennessee districts that have made the decision on teachers at a local level.
Maury County is one of the districts with the new policy. This means teachers are exempt from the 14-day quarantine recommended by the CDC.
Teachers unions are concerned that school employees could then potentially be carriers of the virus.
NEA President Lily Eskelsen Garcia said in a statement that the designation “has no legal merit and is more of a rhetorical gambit to give President Trump and those governors who are disregarding the advice and guidance from public health experts an excuse to force educators into unsafe schools.”
However, the districts say this is necessary to keep staffing levels up and keep schools open.
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.
