After 18 months of virtual/hybrid teaching and learning, we are about to begin our journey to a more normal school environment. At least, that’s what I have hoped.
After a week of professional development to prepare for the 2021-2022 school year, I have realized a few things.
1. I’m not in mask shape! I’ve had a whole summer of being with my family and being outside without a mask. I have chosen to wear a mask, but I’m really not ready to teach in it again. I better get back to my mask training!
2. I definitely prefer interacting with friends and colleagues face to face! I have missed seeing people. While using Zoom was perfect for our situation last year, it’s nice to get back to seeing people and laughing. I have missed real social interactions.
3. I’m not ready, my kids aren’t ready, and my colleagues aren’t ready. After 18 months this is going to be a brand new experience for all. In one of my meetings someone commented that the incoming junior class have had one semester of being in a normal high school environment. I’m just ready for the unexpected.
4. I’m excited! I can’t wait to really get to know my students and guide them during their last year of high school. I can’t wait for my own children to experience a normal school environment.
With all the emotions that teachers and students are experiencing right now, please remember that we all need patience. Be patient with your children’s teachers and be patient with your children. We are still treading through rough waters and the unknown is still out there. Do not worry about loss of learning because it wasn’t lost. It was unfinished and this is the school year that we will get back to normal.
Be safe and have a wonderful school year.
