Coronavirus School Closures: What Do They Mean For Student Equity And Inclusion?

The current coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis is having a profound impact, not only on people’s health, but also on how they learn, work and live. Among the most important challenges created by COVID-19 is how to replace a system of education built around physical schools. As of today, 191 countries, encompassing around 91% of enrolled learners worldwide, have closed their schools to try to contain the spread of the virus.

School closures will have a very real impact on all students, but especially on the most vulnerable. Children and youth from low-income and single-parent families; immigrant, refugee, ethnic minority and indigenous backgrounds; and those with special education needs will suffer by being deprived of physical learning opportunities, social and emotional support available in schools and extra services such as school meals. They risk falling further behind and becoming isolated with school doors closed……….………………