CDC Director Admits: It’s Not Just Science That Affects Our Guidance On Opening Schools

On Friday, at a press briefing, CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky acknowledged that although the return to in-person learning at schools “must be based on a thorough review of what the science tells us,” “direct changes” to the CDC guidance on opening schools were made as a result of engaging with “many education and public-health partners.”

“I recognize that the decision, on when and how to begin in-person learning is one that must be based on a thorough review of what the science tells us works and an understanding of the lived experiences, challenges, and perspectives, of teachers and school staff, parents, and students,” Walensky stated. “We have conducted an in-depth review of the available science and evidence base to guide our recommendations, and we have also engaged with many education and public-health partners, to hear firsthand from parents and teachers, directly, about their experiences and concerns.”