Changes and a return to Pre-Pandemic School

Adam B. ‘25 and Matteo B. ‘25 participating in a class discussion with English Teacher Anna LaSala-Goettler. English class last year had significantly fewer live discussions, but both students and teachers are seeing the benefits of live discussions this year (Da Ping Luo).

This year, students and teachers are noticing the benefits of engaging face to face, both academically and socially. Despite the challenges that still exist, members of the community are getting closer to a pre-pandemic environment.

“The way that you guys are showing up this year has been great,” Gene Campbell, Head of Upper School said. “I am happy to be back, although we are wearing masks, you guys have done a good job.” 

According to Mr. Campbell, the transition from online learning to in-person learning has been a tough adjustment. However, the incorporation of more breaks and learning centers, which occur three times each week and allow students to meet with their teachers. Additionally, there are fewer early dismissals for athletics. 

“I think some elements of this new schedule, I like how we give you guys a break in the morning and I like that we have Community time,” Mr. Campbell said. “We have office hours when everybody is on schedule. It's really hard to pull off something like that. Additionally, we've been able to minimize the impact of early dismissal for Sports on academic classes.”

Independent schools throughout the city have been communicating with each other throughout the pandemic. These meetings have helped schools during the various challenges of the pandemic.

“We have meetings among the division heads at the various schools, the heads of schools meet, school nurses meet, there's constant communication about what other schools are doing,” Mr. Campbell said. “The only way the city gets through this is if we all figure it out together.” 

Jessi Soles, Director of Health and Wellness, has been one of the most important members of the community because she has helped keep students mentally and emotionally healthy for the past two school years. Ms. Soles has seen significant differences between this year and last year. 

“Last year everyone felt disconnected, very tired of their screens, and feeling as if they were not learning as much,” she said. “This year I see everyone engaged in person, and have even had some kids come and tell me how much more they have been learning in person.”

Overall, this year has been a big change from last year and both teachers and students are seeing the changes mentally and physically.