5 Tips for Returning to School During COVID-19
As students and parents prepare for the reopening of schools this fall, we sat down with Jane Hannon, the Assistant Head for Teaching & Learning, at The Williams School in New London. Here are a few tips to conquer the challenges we continue to face during the pandemic.
1. Practice makes Perfect
Start the practice of wearing a mask now for a few hours a day, building up a little more each day or week for your child to be comfortable wearing a mask in an in-person classroom. At Williams, we have reconfigured all teaching and learning spaces to provide for 6 feet of social distance, and reconsidered all aspects of daily school life to keep students and adults in our community safe. Everyone is required to practice social distancing at all times and wear masks with the exception of snack and lunchtime where students get a break from their masks to eat, socialize, and connect, safely. For our Middle School students, teachers are building outside mask break time into their routines.
2. The Whole is the Goal
When students return home from school, try not to ask the ever-common question, “How was your day?”. Their “new normal” may be overwhelming or difficult to process. Instead, touch base with concrete questions; maybe ask what the peak and pit of their day was. Encouraging children to grapple with certain aspects of their experience may help them to better understand and accept their realities. Acknowledging that this is a challenge for all of us may help your child process and share.
3. Connections are Key
It is of utmost importance for students to feel connected during times of isolation. If they’re returning to school they should gain more opportunities to connect and spend time with their friends, but it’s crucial that they practice social distancing and wearing of face masks. Williams is building into its schedule daily time for community connections for all our students, whether they are on campus or learning online through our synchronous distance program.
4. Balance Screen Time
As learning options vary widely between schools and districts, notice how much time your student is spending at their computer. If studying from home, it may be many hours; if going to school in person, it is most likely less. On days when students are behind the screen for long stretches, encourage off-screen activities in the afternoon and evening, like getting outside, drawing, painting, dancing, or engaging in self-care or personal growth and wellbeing activities. Williams has re-considered its curriculum to better accommodate students' screen time and encourages “get up and go” activities to get away from the screen.
5. Model Positivity and Optimism
As tough as things get, stay positive. Yes, the future is uncertain and at times a little scary, but a positive attitude can mean all the difference for children. Being calm in the face of adversity is the best gift you can give your child as they learn to model mature and responsible character traits.
If any good comes out of the pandemic, perhaps it will be the foundation on which to build a more kind, considerate, patient, and just world in which our children can continue to grow and actively make better.
The Williams School is Ready!
The Williams School is an independent college preparatory day school offering full five-day on campus or synchronous distance teaching and learning programs for students in grades 6-12. On the campus of Connecticut College, Williams offers an exceptional academic program paired with guidance from knowledgeable and dedicated faculty, advisors, and college counselors. Enriched with a plethora of arts and athletic opportunities, Williams’ learning experience will prepare your child for an evolving world.
2020-2021 Academic Year Considerations
Synchronous Classes - Five Full Days a Week
Students will participate on campus or from home. Classrooms will be equipped with state-of-the art technology , so students learning from home will be fully immersed in the classroom experience with their teachers and peers.
On Campus Health & Safety
New policies and procedures align with CDC guidelines. Classrooms of 6-18 students allow 6’ of space between desks and the teacher’s space. Additional cleaning, sanitizing stations, and enhanced HVAC technology ensure safety of students, faculty, and staff.
Character & Community
Daily connection time will enrich relationships between students, peers, and faculty. Advisor meetings, Evolving Perspectives Cohort Project, College Counseling Workshops, and many additional activities are being offered.
Arts & Athletics
Modifications allow students to pursue their passions. Scholar-Artists will produce and perform a Middle School Production, a Fall Play, several Dance performances, and a Spring Musical, which will be viewed in-person and online. Scholar-Athletes will have regular practice and inter-team competition and team building opportunities with potential for inter-league scrimmages.
Learn more about The Williams School at www.williamsschool.org
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