How Learning can Continue if Flu Closes US Schools

The U.S. Department of Education has prepared a set of recommendations for schools and families detailing how the educational process can continue should pandemic outbreaks of H1N1 and seasonal flu force mass school closures this fall and winter.

Concerns over the impact of the H1N1, popularly known as Swine Flu, on schools has been growing since the Centers for Disease Control determined that the virus spreads most quickly among younger Americans, specifically children ages 6 months to 24 years.

Recommendations in the government report Continuity of Learning for Schools During Extended Student Absence or School Dismissal suggest that schools prepare take-home assignments in advance for affected students and use the Internet and telephones to post homework materials, conduct classes, share information and keep teachers, parents and students in close touch.

To help implement the recommendations, the Education Department is working with several private sector companies, including Google, Apple and Microsoft to make at home learning resources like pre-printed lesson plans, conference call services, webinar support, podcasting, and virtual classrooms more affordable and accessible to schools.

Kathleen Sebelius in a press release. But if they get sick -- and some will -- we have to make sure that they don’t fall behind.”

Also See:
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H1N1 Swine Flu 2009 Frequently Asked Questions (Patient Empowerment)

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