Hackley continuously writes that, “If your student begins to exhibit symptoms consistent with COVID-19, please keep them home from school and seek a COVID-19 test. In such cases, a student can return to school if they are fever-free for 24 hours and have a negative PCR test.” Zoom is only available for those who have tested positive or have been exposed to COVID-19 which should be changed in order to allow those who have colds, or fevers to stay on top of their work from home. Many do not understand what pressure missing just one day of school can put on a student at Hackley so, the Zoom policy should be available for all students and faculty who are ill. Also, obtaining a PCR test can be particularly difficult for working parents which creates another unneeded obstacle. 

Yes, some feel that making Zoom available for anyone does come with risks and negatives but the benefits outweigh them. Some might take advantage and stay home to get a nice relaxing workday from home or take an early vacation.

But, think about the benefits. Firstly, students who are infected will be able to stay home which will decrease the spread of their illness. Recently, a cold broke out in the Upper School mostly due to the fact that most with the cold were staying in school to stay on top of their work. Secondly, students will be able to recover in their homes and strengthen their immune system which is one of the most important things we need to keep track of especially during a global pandemic. 

Throughout the pandemic Hackley school has been doing a tremendous job handling safety and policies with weekly testing, social distancing mandates as well as outdoor classroom spaces but, the Zoom policy needs to be altered to accommodate anyone who is sick not only to protect the spread but also to make sure that students do not feel extra stress on top of the stress that many deal with during the normal school year. 

With this option, the well-being of the students and teachers at Hackley is being put before anything else. It will allow an extra option for students to listen in on class and not miss a whole school day fully which can decrease stress and improve our community as a whole. This administration should put the well-being of the students forward and allow Zoom for anyone who is sick.