At least 52 school districts across the country have returned to face-to-face learning.

MINNEAPOLIS – Vaccinations have been a huge barrier to getting kids back into class, but while we wait for it to spread further, there is new evidence that we may not have to wait.

A newly published study by the CDC of 17 schools in rural Wisconsin that required masks found 191 COVID-19 infections. However, only seven resulted from the transfer at school.

The results are only a small fraction of the newly released data the CDC is using to support its claim that schools can and should reopen as long as mask wear and proper social distancing are maintained.

“I would support the CDC recommendation because it is really data based,” said Dr. Anthony Fauci. “The fact is, if you look at a community and look at the spread of the virus in the community and how it spreads at the community level, compared to school in that community, a child is less likely to become infected in school. “

The evidence is sparking new efforts to reopen the schools of parent and teacher groups like Let Them Learn Minnesota and Edina Parents 4 Progress.

“The research is overwhelming that the school is safe. We know so much more now than we did ten months ago,” said Nicole Schnell of Edina Parents 4 Progress.

At least 52 school districts across the country have returned to face-to-face learning, and just this week the Iowa Governor signed a bill requiring all public schools to offer full-time face-to-face learning from February 15.

“It’s time to think about all the children and everyone you know. Public health is not one-dimensional, it is the entire public, and that includes our children,” Schnell said.

President Joe Biden is also committed to bringing students back into class during his first 100 days in office as part of his goals.