The specter of the omicron variant is casting a shadow over schools and workplaces. This version of the COVID-19 virus is proving able to plow through the defenses of vaccinations. It travels fast, and as schools reopen and businesses start to call employees back to work, health experts fear it will spread quickly.

So, what to do? People have shown they are not in the mood for stay-at-home orders and online learning. Some scoff at the idea that masking will do anything to slow the virus. We could all get vaccinations, but many don’t see the point or doubt the data.

What are schools to do? They have a responsibility to provide a safe learning environment for their students and staff. But they run the risk of drawing the ire of those who think people have the right to accept or reject medical advice if they start requiring masks or even going to online learning.

It would be worth the risk, if the omicron virus sweeps through the schools as officials fear it might. Requiring masks and social distancing are easy steps, compared to the prospect of large percentages of students and staff coming down with the virus.

School district should be ready to take action if and when the threats become real.