Closing our schools was a terrible mistake that has caused incalculable harm to our students. For the past year, children have been robbed of a quality education, the opportunity to learn and socialize with their peers, to attend dances, homecomings, graduation ceremonies and more. They've also been robbed of the opportunity to play sports, which for students in high school, has major implications on their ability to earn scholarships and attend college. The science is clear: Schools are safe, and they do not meaningfully contribute to community transmission of COVID-19. Transmission in Maine schools is far lower than the general population, and it's well established that young people stand little risk of death or a severe case if they catch COVID-19. Doctors and scientists also agree that vaccination is not necessary for schools to safely reopen for in-person instruction. With Maine moving to vaccinate teachers quicker than the rest of the general population, there is no reason to keep our schools closed. We urge you to do what is right -- for children and working families -- and reopen our schools five days a week for in-person instruction. Use your platform and voice to tell families, teachers, administrators and school boards the truth -- that schools are safe, and it's time to go back to school.