Navigating the School Reopening Debate

The chapter explores the complexities of the debate surrounding the safety of reopening schools during the pandemic, showcasing contrasting opinions and concerns for students and teachers. It follows the story of Emily Oster, an economist and parent, who took initiative to collect data directly from schools to inform decision-making amidst the uncertainties of the COVID-19 era. The chapter highlights the challenges of data collection, the politicization of school reopenings, and the personal commitment to driving change in educational systems during challenging times.