Dr. Rebekah E. Piper
Educational disparities between Latino students compared to White students has always existed, but COVID-19 has simply widened the gap.
As a researcher with a Ph.D. in the field of education, data has shown that the pandemic has widened educational disparities in the Latino community. Research has also proven, Donald Trump and his administration failed to take the steps needed to reduce infections in our communities. The challenge parents and schools are now facing is unprecedented. Reopening schools has made it worse. As a result, cases have exploded. In Douglas County, Colorado, three high schools closed following multiple confirmed cases of COVID-19 and caused a shortage of substitutes needed to fill in for staff currently in quarantine.
In a recent conversation I had with a mother of three school aged children, I observed the fear and frustration of inadequacy as she voiced her lack of teaching experience, and felt as though she was expected to work magic to teach her children. She also shared her fear that her sons were falling behind and would eventually return to school and be behind their peers. All parents want what is the best for their child. In the last several months, parents have been in a difficult position as they transition from parent, to worker, to teachers, all without formal training to navigate between the different roles. What will the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic truly have on our families for generations to come?
I support Joe Biden and Kamala Harris and believe they support the future and livelihood of Latino families. While the pandemic has changed the structure of school settings – temporarily, we cannot afford to act carelessly about the education of Latino children.
Joe Biden has a plan to support reopening schools safely and to help students whose learning was interrupted. His plan will put our children and educators first. Biden will deliver high-quality remote and hybrid learning with a special emphasis on students with disabilities, and students who do not have access to specific technology.
It is for these reasons that I am asking you to join me in electing Vice President Joe Biden as our next president. We need to do as much as we can from now until November 3rd. There are still a few more days to ensure you are registered to vote. And if you have questions, call or text 720-580-0148, in Spanish or English.
I support Joe Biden and Kamala Harris and believe they support the future and livelihood of Latino families. While the pandemic has changed the structure of school settings – temporarily, we cannot afford to act carelessly about the education of Latino children. Let us focus on the needs of our communities, schools, and families!
Dr. Rebekah E. Piper was born in the San Luis Valley, Colorado. She is a former teacher, committed to ensuring all children and families have equal access to high quality education and continues to apply her Ph.D and expertise to championing for better education for all and improve access to education.
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