Thread by @TorontoStar

Just how safe is it to return to the classroom in the age of COVID-19?

We asked experts — from people who do pandemic modelling to doctors — for their science-based perspectives about measures school boards are taking to keep the spread of COVID-19 at bay.thestar.com/news/gta/2020/…

There was disagreement over whether it was realistic for parents to keep their kids home for 2 weeks at the slightest symptom of illness. And not all believe we will be able to make it through a full school year in classrooms.

Here's our panel of experts: thestar.com/news/gta/2020/…

Q: Some schools are allowing students to work closely together as long as they’re wearing masks. Do you think that is safe or should elementary class size be reduced?

See answers from all experts: thestar.com/news/gta/2020/…

Q: Does arranging all the desks facing forward really make a difference?

See answers from all experts: thestar.com/news/gta/2020/…

Q: At least one school board is allowing students to sing in class as long as they’re physically distancing. Do you think singing in choir or class is safe?

See answers from all experts: thestar.com/news/gta/2020/…

Q: Some schools have windows that only open a few inches. How important is good ventilation? Or can ventilation spread the virus around?

See answers from all experts: thestar.com/news/gta/2020/…

Q: Some school buses will be operating at capacity. What are your thoughts on the safety of this? How can parents keep their kids safe on buses?

See answers from all experts: thestar.com/news/gta/2020/…

Topics of other questions answered include gym class, outdoor classrooms, water fountains, self-screening for symptoms, and more.

Read the full story to see what these experts had to say about pressing back-to-school issues:

thestar.com/news/gta/2020/…

You can also listen to our latest episode of #ThisMatters, where @EVYSTADIUM sat down with @krushowy to answer questions about back to school sent by readers and listeners in a Q&A.

thestar.com/podcasts/thism…