Icelandic society is now facing significant challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Measures have been taken that are unprecedented in the republic's history, which include those concerning the country's school system. Following a meeting of the Director of Public Health, a representative of the Civil Protection Department of the National Commissioner of Police, the Ministry of Education and Culture, the Association of Icelandic Local Authorities, and the Association of Local Authorities in the Capital Region, the City of Reykjav\u00edk and the Icelandic Teachers' Association, the following statement is issued:<\/p>\n
\u201eCivil protection authorities are facing a new reality every day. It is essential that the authorities' recommendations, which are aimed at ensuring the safety of citizens and protecting the infrastructure of Icelandic society, are followed, and that decision-making and implementation are as well-considered as possible. The assessment of the Director of Public Health and the authorities at this time is that it is important for nursery and primary schools to continue to operate. This decision is based on the nature of the disease and the importance of schools in society. However, school operations will be subject to conditions, and it is clear that schooling will be disrupted. The safety and health of pupils and staff are paramount. Vulnerable groups must be protected in particular, and it must be ensured that all critical information concerning the schools' operations is acted upon immediately.<\/em><\/p>\n The community is now pulling together to face the challenge ahead. The education system will not be able to deliver all its statutory duties in the coming weeks and will need to prioritise. The public, and businesses in particular, are therefore asked to show flexibility and responsibility. Parents are asked to follow the guidance from education authorities and school leaders regarding schooling. Education is one of the cornerstones of society. Schools have the role, among other things, of increasing equality and protecting children. School staff have done a tremendous job of supporting pupils during these uncertain times. The signatories to this statement intend to work in close and effective partnership to ensure that situations are responded to quickly and effectively as they arise. In this work, the welfare and safety of the children will always be the priority. We will ensure that communication about school matters is robust, targeted and honest.\u201c<\/em><\/p>\n