The views of both WHO and the CDC were that while schools could be covid-unsafe, with social distancing measures and things like masks/ventilation/hygience enforced, they appeared to be very covid-safe.
And how many schools have truly been able to manage all this?
We had pretty strict rules but had to stay within LEA guidelines, which came from the Government.
It is primary so no masks and no social distancing within the bubbles between children and staff. School adults SDed between each other and we had no in person staff meetings, and lunch etc was in classrooms, staff rooms closed, etc.
Old school so over crowded classrooms with limited ventilation possible. Limited outside poace for number of students too. We already have two classrooms in 'temporary' cabins - they've been used for decades.
Not enough toilets so have to be shared with other classes, limited hand washing space as a result and over crowded toilet areas.. One sink in a classroom for 30 children.
Not allowed to ask children to provide evidence of a negative PCR even if sent home with symptoms. Have to take their word for it. List of symptoms used in the UK was limited despite us knowing that children often displayed different symptoms to the main 3 we used.
PHE not fully following at the information provided meaning not all classes with contact had to isolate, especially if someone had non 'big 3' symptoms.
Unsurprisingly Covid swept through the school in the Autumn term. over 75% staff caught it. Several parents and pupils did too. This was despite our best efforts.
Anyone who truly believes that most state schools were able to really implement everything those reports advised are somewhat naive at best.