Are Schools Closed Tomorrow? A Tradition and Perspective in America
According to current guidelines in the USA, schools are typically closed on Saturday and Sunday. With the flu season and the ongoing pandemic, the decision to close schools is often a subject of debate and concern. In my case, as an adult who has children, I would not let them attend school or any public place during a pandemic to ensure their safety and avoid the risk of contracting or spreading viruses. Considering the craziness of opening schools during such times, maintaining safety should always be a priority.Some individuals take a different stance, with a more indifferent attitude toward school closures. They argue that attendance is a personal choice and not a matter of public concern. While they don't stress about whether their children attend school, they also highlight that their children's education and well-being are not within their direct supervisory role.
In many areas of the USA, schools close on Friday after Thanksgiving. This year, our local schools have been closed on Friday, allowing parents time to prepare for the holiday. Many schools also closed on Tuesday, the day after a major holiday, giving parents additional time to bake, buy groceries, and prepare the necessary dishes and decorations for Thanksgiving. For those of us who used to work on Thanksgiving Wednesday, we often had to request personal or vacation days to ensure we were prepared. Some employers offered the day off, but for those who did not, organizing ahead of time was crucial. Preparing side dishes in advance made the actual Thanksgiving meal a breeze the following day.
The closure of schools on the Friday after Thanksgiving is a common practice in many parts of the USA, but it also serves another practical purpose. The idea behind this tradition is to save on heating costs. Heating an entire school building is a significant expense, especially in the northern regions where the climate is colder. By closing the school on Friday, they can turn off the heating system and save on energy costs for the four weekend days. This common practice not only benefits schools but also aligns with the broader goal of energy conservation.
The pandemic has added another layer of complexity to these traditions and practices. Health and safety have become paramount, and the decision to close schools must now be made with these considerations in mind. It is crucial to ensure that these closures do not cause undue stress or inconvenience for families and to find viable alternatives when possible.