As the Northampton School Committee considers alternative plans for reopening the schools, we need metrics in the plans to decide whether it is necessary to close them again. These metrics should be very clear and specific to Northampton. They should be decided in advance and part of the plan. Here are possibilities: If the number of new cases in the city double or triple from the current level, should we close the schools? A sample of students could be tested weekly in each school. If more than a certain percent test positive, should we close the school? What is that percent? A sample of faculty and staff from the system could be tested weekly. If a certain percent test positive, should we close the schools? What is that percent? The problem is that the pandemic is heating up again. To use an old metaphor, we are like the frog in the rapidly heating water. If we do not establish clear standards in advance for exiting, teachers, students and staff may get boiled.
William Diamond
Northampton