Monday Minute – May 25, 2020
To say that this year has been memorable is the ultimate understatement. Schools here in SC have been closed since March 15, when the official announcement was made. Thousands of teachers and administrators became online educators literally overnight. Luckily, most of us had been planning ahead, and were at least somewhat prepared. My school had work packets ready for the initial closure, but then had a “hurry up and wait” pattern on next steps. I am incredibly proud of my staff that rose to the occasion and did the best possible with the resources available under unforeseen circumstances.
Our end of the year celebration for students and families, we held a “drive through” celebration. Parents drove through our car line / loop, many decorated their vehicles and made posters. Teachers lined both sides of the drive way holding signs, balloons, waving and sending socially distanced well wishes. When posted on the school’s social media page, the story and images were shared 16 times, reaching over 3,000 people, which is pretty amazing since we only have about 360 students.
For teachers, we are having a “bring your own picnic” lunch on Thursday. Each person will bring what they’d like to eat, since buffet type dining isn’t an option this year. I have invited them to bring picnic blankets and/or beach blankets so that we can spread out, eat, and enjoy what should be a beautiful day, all while staying six feet apart. We will honor our Teacher of the Year and retirees at this picnic, too.
My goal in these end of the year events is to celebrate our students, staff and community, all of whom have worked together to keep children learning during a pandemic. Hopefully, there will not be another “end of year” like this one.
LEaD by Dr. B 