On August 17th, the 2020-2021 school year began. It’s easy to say that this school year was very anticipated, especially considering the circumstances we are currently in. It was decided that rather than going back as students normally would, we would be spending the first 9 weeks navigating our way through online school. During this time we are taking safe measures in order to subdue the pandemic and hopefully get life back to normal, but until then we must accept remote learning and work to do our best in classes and school in general.
Near the end of the 2019-2020 school year, it was decided that we would begin our journey with remote learning to finish off the year. To put it simply, the experience was rather challenging but still manageable. Many students, including me, find it immensely easier to learn in person and in a physical school environment. Unfortunately, this simply was not an option. Our teachers and board of education worked hard to make online schooling as manageable as possible, and with much determination, we were able to finish the 2019-2020 school year successfully.
Many students assumed that by the beginning of the new school year everything would go back to normal. Unfortunately, this just wasn’t the case. Dr. Elliot and the Board of Education formed a plan to attend school for only 2 days a week but this was quickly placed on hold when the number of coronavirus cases steadily increased. While I’m sure many were disappointed, ultimately this was the most logical decision to make, and just like before students and teachers adapted accordingly.
I was curious as to how other students were adjusting to online school. I wanted to know what was helping them to get through this situation as efficiently as possible. 11th grader Riley Alderson told me over a video call “I don’t mind online school as much as I used to. You are able to create your own schedule, work at your own pace, and focus more on yourself.” She then went on to say, “I think it was the right decision to make because it is for the safety of our generation.” Much like Riley I’ve worked on creating a schedule for myself similar to how it worked when physically at the high school. I’ve found it very useful especially when trying to avoid procrastinating work.
Along with online schooling there comes many technical problems, and while these may be very difficult, teachers are understanding of these issues. Students have found it helpful to email my teacher whenever a technical problem arises. They always seem very understanding and willing to work past these instances in order to help students.
Asked if she had any tips when dealing with online education, Alderon said, “My biggest tip is to communicate with your teachers. They usually understand what is going on and work to help you.”
Overall, it seems like these times are hard and never-ending. We will get through this though and be back to normal before you know it. In the meantime, continue working hard, communicating with teachers and peers, and focusing on yourself. You’ve got this!
Written by Abby Graham
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