Why is that absurd? Millions of Americans (mostly women) have had to work less or leave their jobs entirely in order to take care of their children, which is a major hit to both their finances and careers. It's a huge cost.
It is somewhat surprising to me
It shouldn't be if the media had been doing their jobs, but due to either incompetence or bias they haven't. People really don't seem to realize that schools have been open in large parts of the US (and many other countries) for months, and it hasn't led to mass infections of students or teachers or parents.
We sent our 6 yo back to (in person) school because computer school was a bad idea.
I have a friend who teaches high school. He is SO relieved to be ending computer teaching.
I think so people want in person school so parents can work, but plenty of people want in person school because it IS better.
I also think in person is better than remote. I can still think the bias to make it look safe to send kids back to school feels forced.
Still, your points stand that there are some good studies showing kids are not necessarily the major spreaders. It is somewhat surprising to me, but it is data.