Reply.

Abstract

We thank Dr Cordero Jr for their letter [1] and reflections on our recent paper in Occupational Medicine [2]. In particular, we appreciate the cross-cultural perspective provided by Dr Codero Jr, highlighting the similarities in the challenges faced by educators throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. As noted in our article, there has been less attention paid to the experiences of educators during the COVID-19 pandemic, compared to both other front-line professions, and to the health impacts on school-aged children. Our article and the response by Dr Codero Jr are efforts to address this knowledge gap. As outlined by Dr Codero Jr, investment in education systems and technological infrastructure is needed to support educators as they address learning differentials created by the COVID-19 pandemic among their students, and adapt to new forms of education delivery. This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial or not-for-profit sectors. Authors P.S. and C.M. work for the Institute for Work & Health (IWH) and authors Oudyk and Cedillo work for the Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers (OHCOW). Both IWH and OHCOW are supported through funding from the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD). The analyses, conclusions, opinions and statements expressed herein are solely those of the authors and do not reflect those of the MLITSD; no endorsement is intended or should be inferred.