SCHOOLS ARE MORE THAN BUILDINGS: An open letter to students, parents, and schools

Schools are more than buildings… With all the uncertainty during this unprecedented time, it is normal for everyone to have feelings of fear and anxiety. For parents and guardians, it’s likely been overwhelming to be abruptly thrust into facilitating instruction for your children. Don’t be so tough on yourselves.

We will get through this together! Just remember we are perhaps experiencing one of the greatest challenges of our time. Although frustration and anxiety may occur, it’s still necessary to provide a level of composure for children. Children are also having to adapt. They miss the routine, structure and social interactions that occur in schools with their peers, teachers and staff. Still, they are working diligently; we should be proud of how they’ve managed this in such a short amount of time. It’s imperative to establish healthy routines so they can keep their spirits up to be engaged in the process. Children look to us for cues on how to respond to the unexpected.

Schools are more than buildings… School districts across the nation moved quickly to continue teaching, learning, feeding and caring for students and the school community in the days since schools were closed. The daily demands during the Covid-19 crisis have staff feeling they’re on a nonstop merry-go-round with school and home life intersecting daily. This is especially true for those serving in the role of parent and a professional. Suddenly, we've gone live, it seems like everything is virtual! Nonetheless, it is imperative that we strive for balance between "home" and HOME! Ask for help if you need it. Stress management and taking care of yourselves is vital. As we continue to work through unforeseen twists and turns, my hope is that the public will remain supportive by showing grace, mercy, patience and understanding as we journey down this uncertain path. As an educator, I am amazed and proud of how we have navigated the course. This is tough, we MISS our students-they are at the heart of the matter!

What makes school staff a phenomenal force? What differentiates us from the rest? Our SUPERPOWER is that we’ve consistently proven how our relationships with students, parents and stakeholders are critical! Everyone matters, we’re all an essential piece of the puzzle. I’m so humbled to be among the ranks!

Schools are more than buildings… We all could use some encouragement right now! There will be more times when we all experience crushing moments of frustration and perhaps anguish. I understand this as a parent and educator. I have a high school senior in the Class of 2020, and it’s been difficult to keep her encouraged-she was having a fantastic senior year. Justifiably, the senior class is disappointed, and they should be allowed to express and embrace those feelings, exempt from judgement by others.This STINKS! So to the senior class, I'd like to say, I know your hearts are broken. I'm broken with you...this is gut-wrenching for the people who love you. We all feel it! You are not alone! Your parents, teachers, family, and other support systems are here for you. Moreover, during this social distancing in which we are currently living, just know that your friends are still your friends. You are there for them and they are there for you—this pandemic can’t change those forever friendships. Although you may be physically apart, you are all connected--a Perfect Vision!

Rely on those friendships and be there for each other. I also would like to offer some encouragement, using a proverbial phrase I keep in my toolbox of phrases (I can see my daughters rolling their eyes now). When life gives you lemons, make lemonade! Your class has the power to make the most out of this unfortunate situation. Teaching has taught me that young people are resilient, and you will find innovative ways to counteract in the face of adversity. Society will benefit from your resilience. Right now, your health is of upmost importance and we need to protect you. Please know, that we acknowledge you, and look forward to attending a ceremony to celebrate YOU, even if it's delayed!

Schools are more than buildings… Schools are more than buildings, people are what make schools more than buildings...from students to staff, to parents and the community. A month ago, I went from making final plans for spring events to having to cancel them all. On the last day of physical school, I waved and chatted with students as they came by to pick up their instruments. The air was filled with nervous energy...some anxiety, and for my eighth graders, disappointment about their trips being cancelled. I felt their disappointment, and had to fight the lump that kept trying to rise in my throat. Could these type of fresh emotions be experienced virtually? School buildings are one of the first places where children develop social-emotional skills.The atmosphere of a school embodies the spirit of a school, which is shared by students and staff alike. It is authentic, tangible, and it cannot be duplicated. While the school building may be filled with its challenges, it is also filled with extraordinary opportunities for growth and interpersonal relationships. Schools are indeed more than buildings. This is what is missing... we yearn for a return to this atmosphere, to the school.

We must work to get back to this together! BE ENCOURAGED! Let your FAITH be bigger than your fear--better days are coming! We must uplift each other. Let’s keep each other in our best thoughts and keep each other encouraged...