In several countries, including Israel, Japan, Denmark, students have started to return to school.Xinhua News Agency / Contributor / Getty Images
- Schools across the globe have closed to stem the spread of the coronavirus, impacting 1.4 billion students.
- In a handful of countries, including Israel, Japan, Denmark, and China, where risks have declined, schools are beginning to reopen.
- Schools are taking a number of precautionary measures, such as mandatory temperature checks, holding classes outside, and spacing desks and tables apart.
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When the coronavirus pandemic hit, schools across the globe closed their doors to help slow the spread of the disease, a decision that has impacted 1.4 billion students worldwide.
It will still be months before schools reopen in many countries. But in a handful of places, where infection rates have dropped significantly, schools are starting to hold classes again. They're taking a number of precautionary measures to do so safely.
On Sunday, school reopened in Israel for children with special needs, students in first through third grade and juniors and seniors in high school. Classes were already underway in Norway, Japan, Denmark, China, and Taiwan.
Children went back to institutions that have adjusted to a new reality. Staff members are taking students' temperatures at the door. Some schools have closed playgrounds, and are spacing desks in classrooms a safe six feet apart. When possible, teachers are holding lessons outside and in small groups.
In the US, many schools will remain closed for the year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued preliminary guidelines, which include closing cafeterias, canceling sporting events, and field trips.
The US, and other countries, will likely also take cues from Denmark, Japan, Norway, China, Israel, and Taiwan. Here's what they're doing to keep their students safe.
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