California Colleges Can Reopen - With Restrictions

By Frederick Suh

Cypress High School

The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019, also known as COVID-19, has created a global health crisis that has had a huge impact on our everyday lives. It has also affected educational systems worldwide, leading to closures of schools, universities, and colleges. As all 50 states have begun reopening, the question of how to reopen colleges safely has become a great concern. Many colleges and universities have decided to increase online offerings and outright cancel in-person classes. However, California Governor Gavin Newsom has released new guidance for reopening universities and allowed California colleges to reopen in the fall. Even with many restrictions, reopening school campuses will only increase the spread of the coronavirus. 

The new guidance Gov. Newsom proposed prohibits indoor lectures and dining for schools and requires all students and staff to wear masks. Some people believe that it is safe for colleges to reopen their campuses as long as there are restrictions. For example, Eunice Kim, a rising junior at Cypress High School, states that "As long as colleges are following CDC protocols and requiring masks, it is safe for students to go back to school. But in the end, it is a student's decision and I will respect that." She believes that it is safe for colleges to reopen if all students follow the new guidance. On the other hand, some think that safety is the top priority and therefore colleges should not reopen and start the fall semester remotely. Chanah Park, also a rising junior at Cypress High School, agrees and remarks that "I think that colleges should be cautious about reopening their campuses and make sure to place many precautions and restrictions. Also, I don't think colleges should open their campus to all students and should only bring on a select percentage if they do want to open their campus." The skyrocketing infection rates in the United States prove that the pandemic is not under control. Therefore, colleges in California, the state with the most known cases, should not reopen their campuses and instead use a full-distance learning model. If colleges want their students on campus in order to bring in tuition and room-and-board money, first, they should work with local officials to increase safety in the surrounding area. 

It is clear that releasing new guidance with a lot of restrictions is not the best option regarding reopening college campuses. Reopening with restrictions is not a smart idea and will only make matters worse. Therefore, colleges not only in California but also in other states should only teach online until conditions improve.