New York City schools have finally opened for all students, following the same protocols of last year, requiring a health screening to enter school buildings. Many argue its effectiveness and whether or not it helps protect students along with staff against Covid-19. 

Effectiveness is not the only concern in the health screening but it also raises concern over how genuine students are when taking it. It’s very easy to lie on the screening and it does not scientifically prove that one may or may not have the Coronavirus. The first symptoms of COVID-19 can even take one to two weeks to show, which by that time many students and staff members would have come into contact with the affected individual. 

WJPS Speech teacher Cathy Donovan said, “I don’t think the health screening is effective because it’s based on the honor system and I’m unsure if anyone would be truthful. I’d say either mandate all students to be vaccinated or if not require them to get tested every week to make the school a safer environment.” 

WJPS senior Jenny Kuo said, “I think students should bring in lab results at least every week or two stating that they tested negative with COVID-19, it’s safer and accurate that way.”