Health Care Access:
service program allows the most foodinsecure to benefit from one hot meal per day.
SDE should plan now for a full summer-school schedule for all students who wish to enroll. While online learning is a viable option for many, 14% of Connecticut households do not have internet access, making it virtually impossible for many low-income students to engage in meaningful online learning when attendance at brick and mortar schools is not an option. SDE and local school districts should think creatively about full-day summer school programs. Now is the time to seize the opportunity to enrich academics, social development and physical education — especially in the state’s lowest performing districts — to support students who can least afford to miss even a few days of school.
The state’s comprehen
If the virus does not clinically discriminate based on race, economic status or country of origin, children and parents who are vulnerable due to their immigration status should not be precluded from seeking health care due to lack of coverage. Emergency access to health insurance will not cure the outbreak, but it will certainly allow those who are most vulnerable to address medical issues without reservation or fear of rejection.
In hindsight, state leaders and advocates will not be judged by how we react to those who are most vocal and aware, but by how we support those who are most at-risk and vulnerable. We have the means and tools at our disposal to support Connecticut’s children. Let’s not be remembered for leaving them behind when they need us the most.