With Mexico recording all-time high daily coronavirus case counts in recent weeks, many are concerned about the government’s plans to send students back to in-person classes this month. But the United Nations Children’s Fund in Mexico says it supports the decision.
It’s been 18 months now since students in Mexico have set foot in a classroom. But they're slated to start going backwhen the new school year starts across the country on Aug. 30.
And UNICEF's representative in Mexico Luis Fernando Carrera Castro says that’s good news for kids.
"Of course we all want to take care of children," he said during a morning press conference with Mexico's president Thursday. "And that's why we have offered our support to the Mexican government."
Though he acknowledged the risks of returning to school amid the pandemic, he said it's still the safest place for many children to be and said UNICEF will work with Mexican leaders to establish safety protocols, monitor school outbreaks and facilitate communication with educators, families and communities.
And while some reopening details may be adjusted as time goes on, he says every school should implement minimum precautions like mask-wearing, social distancing and frequent handwashing.
"There are basic things we all know by now," he said.
