With Coronavirus outbreaks all over the world, especially in Maryland, going back to school at this time is a horrible idea, especially since the school year is heading into the second semester.

There are strong arguments for why we should go back to in person school. According to the Healthy Children website, “Reopening schools for in-person learning does not seem to significantly increase community transmission of the virus. But it depends on whether schools are able to follow COVID-19 public health guidance. All schools should aim to have students attend school in person, which is how they learn best.”

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Another reason that the people say we should go back is that relationships are hard to maintain over Zoom. The Unschooling University website notes, “A 13-year-old at home can spend his whole ‘school day’ on the computer and may learn the names of his teacher and his classmates, but he does not talk to anyone until his parents get home from work. This is isolating and lonely. Children need relationships.”

One of the strongest reasons why we shouldn’t go back is that the teachers would have to risk their health. The Nancy Bailey’s Education Website explains, “A large concern with children is that they can spread the disease to teachers, parents and grandparents who could be vulnerable. It isn’t fair to risk their health by reopening schools. Teachers and staff should not have to fear their workplace.”

Another reason that we shouldn’t go is that there is no way to control social distancing. “Social distancing is necessary, but it creates an unnatural environment for children in school. Bringing children together is a large part of what school is about. How will teachers enforce separation and isolation? How will this affect children long-term?” Nancy Bailey’s Education Website asks.

Moreover, with the protocols we have to follow, we won’t have enough teachers to fill smaller classes. “There are not enough teachers for smaller classes for social distancing. Experienced older teachers may not want to get sick,” Nancy Bailey’s Education Website said.

Ultimately, at this point it may be too late to go back to in-person school. “It’s too late because we’ve already gone through half of the year, so we might as well finish it,” sophomore Brian Huagabook said.

The disappointing reality is that we shouldn’t go back.