[Federalist] Former chief of neuroradiology at Stanford University Medical Center, Dr. Scott Atlas told Fox News there are "zero excuses" to keep children from returning to schools in the fall."There is virtually zero risk for children getting something serious or dying from this disease. Anyone who thinks schools should be closed is not talking about the children. It has nothing to do with the children’s risk," he said. "There’s no rational reason or science to say that children transmit the disease significantly."
Dr. Atlas pointed out that many American teachers are not in high-risk age groups and therefore, should not be concerned. He also noted that those who are nervous or high-risk can take extra precautions.
"It’s true that there are high-risk teachers and those teachers should be able to believe in their social distancing and masks. They can teach using social distancing. And if they still are afraid they can stay at home. There’s no reason to lock up the children," he said.
According to Dr. Atlas, closing down the schools and continuing online education would hinder children from a full learning experience that includes social interaction and hands-on teaching.
"Long distance learning is a failure," he said.
Numerous related Atlas articles from the Hoover Institute.