COVID-19 Related Facilitators and Barriers to In-Person Learning for Children With Intellectual and Development...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Education Policy

Background:

• Students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and staff remained vulnerable to SARS-CoV-2 during in-person schooling in 2021-2022.
• This study explored perceptions of SARS-CoV-2 screening testing amid increased vaccine availability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To understand perceptions of weekly SARS-CoV-2 screening testing for students with IDD and staff.
• To assess the role of testing in facilitating in-person learning during the pandemic.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving 23 focus groups with school staff and parents of children with IDD.
• Directed thematic content analysis of responses regarding COVID-19 perceptions during the 2021-2022 school year.

Main Results:

• Four themes emerged: mitigation policies, return to in-person learning experiences, testing facilitators/barriers, and perceptions of testing alongside vaccines.
• Saliva-based SARS-CoV-2 screening testing enhanced comfort with in-person learning when the virus circulated.

Conclusions:

• Families deemed SARS-CoV-2 screening testing crucial for maintaining in-person schooling for children with IDD.
• Transparent communication of school policies and mitigation strategies fostered peace of mind and trust in school districts.