The Lasting Impact of School Closures During the COVID-19 Pandemic

September 13, 2025 - 13:41

Research from Oxford University's Department of Statistics and the Leverhulme Centre for Demographic Science reveals that the school closures implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic have resulted in significant long-term costs. The study highlights that while these closures were intended as a health measure, they ultimately delivered limited health benefits compared to other non-pharmaceutical interventions.

The analysis focuses on the effectiveness and economic implications of various strategies employed in the United States during the pandemic. Findings suggest that alternative measures could have achieved better health outcomes at a fraction of the cost associated with keeping schools closed.

As the education system grapples with the repercussions of prolonged closures, the research emphasizes the need for a reevaluation of public health strategies. The long-term effects on students' academic performance, mental health, and social development are becoming increasingly apparent, prompting discussions about how to best support recovery in the educational landscape.