Governor Brown led a press conference today outlining some of the guidelines being developed for re-opening public schools for in-person instruction in the Fall.

Colt Gill, Director of the Oregon Department of Education contrasted comprehensive distance learning with the goal, which he said is, “Our highest priority is to open schools to in-person instruction.”

Dr. Dean Sidelinger, the State Epidemiologist said, “COVID-19 poses much less risk to children age 10 and younger.” He cited the following observations:

• Lower rates of infection
• Tend to get sick less often
• Fewer symptoms
• Transmit the virus less

Despite these facts, and despite the Governor's cheerleading phrase "We can do this," the outlook for in-person instruction looks bleak. Three levels of metrics to be met before reopening in-person schools, were announced

• State positive tests at or below 5 percent
• county infection rate below 10 per 100,000 for seven days
• County postive tests at or below 5 percent

A reporter at the briefing did some math and asked how Multnomah County -- based on it's current performance -- could ever meet the metrics.

Dr. Sidelinger noted that there is one county that currently meets the criteria, with the exception of the statewide component.

What is the end game? We seem to be starting a cycle of lockdown, release and a rise in the numbers, followed by more lockdown. Are we actually saving lives over the long run, or are we just prolonging the inevitable, as the expense of great damage to the quality of lives and basic economic activity needed to sustain society.


--Staff Reports

Post Date: 2020-07-28 16:46:45

Last Update: 2020-07-28 16:47:06