Feb-Mar 2022 Advisor

COMMUNICATING

FEBRUARY–MARCH 2022 CEA ADVISOR 7

A statewide blackout gained local and national media attention, and social media exploded with images of teachers from Hamden, Mansfield, Simsbury, Southington, Stonington, Stratford, Tolland, Union, Wallingford, West Hartford, Windsor, and dozens of other cities and towns. Joining teachers and school staff in the blackout calling for better safety measures were administrators in many districts, frustrated by the lack of masks and COVID tests promised to schools. EDUCATORS’ SURVEY SHOWS GAPS IN SCHOOL HEALTH AND SAFETY

In a January survey of teachers, paraprofessionals, school bus drivers and monitors, custodians, nurses, and support staff in all districts across the state, an overwhelming lack of protocols and safety measures were reported in Connecticut’s public schools. More than 5,500 school employees participated in the survey. “It was a rough start of the year for our education communities,” said CEA President Kate Dias. “We thought we were heading back with N95 masks and availability of test kits, but as our survey showed, many educators and staff members were still waiting for supplies more than a week into the year. The survey findings speak volumes about what our educators and their students are facing and howmuch that contributes to the stress, burnout, and mental health crises

overwhelming all sides.” (See story, pages 4-5.) CEA urged implementation of stringent safety standards in schools, including more aggressive testing protocols and assessment of symptoms, access to free testing at all schools, continued social distancing, improved ventilation, and a prohibition on large group gatherings, combined classes, and dual teaching. “Ultimately, we are looking for statewide, science-based protocols, guidance, and support reflecting the needs of our students and teachers and the deep desire to keep schools open,” said Dias. While the statewide mask mandate in schools was lifted on February 28, 62 % of CEA members surveyed February 4-8 indicated that they will continue to mask up. (See story, page 8.)

AMONG THE JANUARY SURVEY’S KEY FINDINGS

More than half of educators surveyed said their administrators don’t understand the challenges they are facing.

62 % reported not having the supplies and protocols in place to safely perform their jobs.

25 % of educators and staff said their district was successfully balancing instructional needs and the social/emotional needs of students.

70 % of educators said their district was not successfully balancing their professional expectations with their social/emotional needs. While 45 % of respondents said their building administration did a good job of communicating about N95 masks, test availability, and safety protocols for the return to school, nearly as many (41%) said administrators did not do a good job communicating that information.

37 % of respondents said they work directly with students who are unable or unwilling to wear a mask.

70 % of educators lacked access to N95 masks and home testing kits when they returned to school.