Across Idaho—especially in communities with uncontrolled spread of the virus—families and teachers are divided on whether schools should re-open for in-person learning.

More than 40 parents, students and educators testified during an August 4th Boise School District board of trustees meeting, expressing concerns about the quality of online education, concerns about childcare shortages, and worries about community health. After two hours of testimony, the board opted for a virtual start to the school year, with a planned reassessment after two weeks.

Boise School District student Shiva Rajbhandari and his father Ajit both encouraged the board to wait to reopen schools, despite some of the difficulties distance learning has posed for their family. Melissa Davlin spoke to Shiva and Ajit on Friday morning for their perspective.