Pamela Cantor, M.D. Discusses Pandemic Impacts on Learning on NBC News

Turnaround for Children Founder and Senior Science Advisor,  Pamela Cantor, M.D., joined fellow education experts for a panel to discuss impacts on learning from the pandemic for NBC News.

Hosted by NBC’s Kate Snow, Cantor was joined by National PTA President, Anna King and Co-CEO of Excellence Community Charter Schools, Dr. Charlene Reid. Responding to the release of the Nation’s Report Card, the group answered questions submitted by parents across the country about pandemic related learning interruptions affecting elementary and junior high students.

Panelists offered advice for working alongside educators to help students progress, for how we can use this moment as an opportunity to design a better education system, and for how we can motivate students while prioritizing their well-being.

A continuous theme that arose during the discussion was moving the focus purely from academics and catching up toward operating more from an asset-based position and focusing on minimizing students’ stress. Panelists emphasized the importance of relationships, social activities, and stress-relieving hobbies, and how parents, teachers and community members can come together to support students.

Watch the full panel discussion here.