As I write this I am in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, teaching students with Special Needs in person and virtually, managing and directing Assistants through this time, educating and assisting Teachers who have new students in their classes (virtual and in person) with Special Needs, growing my credentials with the Volunteer Advocacy Project Class at Vanderbilt, working on my own side gig (Pick Up the Pieces TN), and parenting my own children (one in middle school and a senior in high school working on his Eagle Project and doing college prep). To say the ramifications of the pandemic has hit me greatly is an understatement. Aside from getting COVID myself or someone in my family getting it, we have been dealing with it on the education front daily since March. There was a small break in June without daily updates. But since July, circumstances continue to change daily.
Being a Special Ed Teacher, I am wowed at the students and Teachers that are in person. The students are wearing masks. The Teachers are pulling double and triple shifts as they teach in person and distance learners. Schools are serving kids by being open, letting the services they provide, other than learning, thrive (feeding, resources, mental health, behavioral support, what do these kids need?). Business is trying to go about as “normal”, getting the daily work of the school day done. Are there kinks? Yes, of course. But every adult is trying to make it as normal as possible for them and the students. It’s really amazing to see. While mine and other staff members comfort levels are tested, the building, and all the services that are provided to the community when school is open, is needed and is as successful as it can be.
That being said, I think there are plenty of families that are struggling with Distance Learning. There are a variety of reasons a family could be Distance Learning. School closure, class quarantine, parent choice, illness, and health issues are all reasons. Some are doing all they can do under their circumstances to teach their kids at home. But when Distance Learning is going well and a family needs are met by it? Watch out. Stand back. Amazing things are happening.
So, how is it going for you? Are you distance learning? Are your kids going to school? How is it all going?
I think it is important to acknowledge where families are. That Teachers and parents are all working toward the same goals. If you are struggling, reach out. Reach out to Teachers. Reach out to school personnel and support. Reach out to us! We might be able to help you navigate your circumstances. After all, as they say…We are all in this together.