by Maggie Meehan
2020 has been quite a crazy year filled with many unknowns, including uncertainties revolving around school and when we are going back. Sadly, there is no set date for when we will return, but TK-5 schools in SDUSD have started Phase 1 of the reopening process. Phase 1 is in person instruction for the kids that need it most, such as children with disabilities, homeless students, foster youth, etc. The district is taking many precautions during this process, including setting new safety standards, creating a new schedule, and supplying students and staff with personal protective equipment (PPE). Hand sanitizer and hand washing stations have been installed on campuses as well as air purifiers. The heaters, ventilation, and air conditioning systems have been replaced with MERV-13 filters.
This school year has been an adjustment for everyone, including teachers and our very own PLHS principal. As Principal Lowry said in an interview with regards to the 2020-2021 school year, “It has been challenging and exciting for me personally. There is always a bit of a learning curve when one begins a new position; in this case it has been coupled with operating during a pandemic.” He hopes that PLHS can offer students a sense of “normalcy and connection,” and that we will soon be able to return to campus.
Teachers have also had to completely change their classroom dynamic to fit our new situation. In an interview with Mrs. Hedges, a world history teacher here on campus, said her biggest challenge has been with technology and trying to figure out how to successfully post assignments, projects, and tests that she has assigned in the past. She has also had a hard time creating bonds with her students- “My biggest struggle is connecting with students. This is my favorite part of my job, and online teaching makes it very difficult. I want my students to feel safe in my class, but that means they keep video and audio off and that cuts us out of contact.”
While everyone is struggling to make the best out of a difficult situation, giving feedback and communicating is the best way to solve problems, according to Ms. Hedges and other members of the Point Loma High School staff. As for now, online learning will have to remain the norm as we try to manage COVID-19.
