Author: Mary Ann Dewan (Mary Ann Dewan)

Health and education experts maintain that the risks from the COVID-19 infection are outweighed by the known and well documented social and mental health harms of remote learning, even during the current omicron surge. California’s determination to use every available tool to keep schools safe during this pandemic is allowing us to keep classrooms open...

Schools across the country are bracing for the fourth wave of COVID-19 fueled by the omicron variant, while maintaining a commitment to keep school campuses open with in-person learning. Disruptions to student attendance and in-person learning have been increasing in recent years. Certainly, the COVID-19 pandemic was and continues to be a major reason for...

With the 2021-2022 school year well underway, it is wonderful to see students across Santa Clara County learning in-person on school campuses. Providing a safe school environment for all students and employees continues to be a top priority. The COVID-19 vaccination is one of the most effective strategies to reduce the spread of the virus...

One in every 6 children face hunger in the U.S, according to Feeding America.org. Far too many children and youth experience food insecurity in Santa Clara County. Hunger negatively impacts the physical, behavioral and academic development of children. All children deserve access to healthy food every day and offering students meals at no cost to...

The last 18 plus months have been challenging for students, families and all school personnel due to pandemic-related circumstances. There was a crisis of youth mental health looming and the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated this crisis. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the number of people having thoughts of suicide and experiencing depression has...

As a lifelong learner and long-time educator, I always look forward to beginning a new school year. The energy and excitement of new beginnings often accompany the start of the school year. With the 2021-22 school year now or soon to be underway for Santa Clara County’s 250,000 young people, there is a sense of...

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a troubling impact on children and their families. As workplaces and schools resume in-person operations, it is key that we keep our youngest learners and their families top of mind. Early care and education are foundational to the long-term health, education and wellbeing of children. Quality childcare, preschool, transitional kindergarten...