The effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic have rocked educational systems across the globe since mid March. Not immune to the effects of current events, Warren County School Systems have been faced with the daunting task of learning in the midst of a Global Pandemic. In such unprecedented times, staff and students alike have been called to rise to the unforeseen challenges that have unfolded in the recent weeks and months.
In the week that Mariam Boyd students should be returning from their Spring trackout, classrooms remain empty and the hallways are silent. Schools are closed, events are cancelled, and students have not passed through the threshold of school in over 5 weeks. In an undoubtedly grim situation, one light shines through- learning is still occurring at Mariam Boyd Elementary School.
Learning looks a little different these days for Mariam Boyd Eagles. Although students are still engaging in the classroom community, completing assignments, and participating in digital and distance learning activities, the delivery of these daily pursuits is much different. Face-to face learning has been replaced through video chats, homework help is completed through phone calls and text messages, and partner work now occurs through online collaboration tools.
In response to the school closing, Mariam Boyd staff worked to quickly and efficiently develop an action plan, one which is designed to slow learning loss and provide students with relevant and engaging content, even when the school system is shut down. A variety of methods have been used by Mariam Boyd teachers, including the dispersion of paper work packets, as well as the use of online learning applications such as Zoom, Google Meet, and ClassDojo.
Teachers work to communicate with parents and students through online platforms, as they post read aloud videos, hold Zoom Meetings, and chat on the phone with students in need. Digital platforms such as Google Classroom are used to post resources and assignments designed to scaffold student learning in the home environment. Counselors and specials teachers reach out with mental health resources and ideas for physical activity.
Connecting with and supporting all students is the top priority for Mariam Boyd staff, and Principal Katrinka Brewer says that she is proud of her team’s efforts to take the recent changes in stride. Brewer notes that “We had widely varying abilities when it came to distance learning for all students. Those that were comfortable in this new teaching style gladly helped those that were struggling. My staff has no trouble asking for help and are more than willing to accept when help is offered. This makes for a great working and learning environment.”
As Warren County Schools work to navigate the challenge of supporting academic growth amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic, we thank the parents and guardians who have worked to collaborate with, and encourage the continuation of learning in all students throughout this time of uncertainty. Although the idea of distance learning is one that is ever changing and not completely clear, one thing has become increasingly transparent at Mariam Boyd- a lot can be accomplished through a little teamwork and a lot of perseverance.