I know that all we’ve heard about for 2 years now is COVID-19 and how the pandemic has changed life as we know it. This especially impacts our children and what they have access to. School is an important resource for families but it’s upside down right now.
It’s no secret that we have a nationwide teacher shortage. Covid is still a concern and kids spread it quickly. In a recent CBS Austin article, teachers are reporting that they aren’t being provided with basic necessities to keep themselves and students safe. A safe work environment is the bare minimum.
Another factor to consider: pay. Teachers just aren’t paid enough. In the Austin metro, they’re only getting a little over $50,000 with 10 years of experience. Can you really blame them for wanting to find a new career?
So, let’s consider who gets hit hardest when school is out. Will it be the household that makes $150,000 a year or the household making less than $30,000? (Y’all, don’t forget about the history of redlining!) Families who have lower incomes are less likely to be able to take paid time off work when schools close down. Even if they have teenagers old enough to be home alone for a few hours, then what?
Everyone has suffered some kind of loss in this pandemic but we can’t pretend like it’s equal across the board.