A Lot To Process

So. Many. Feelings. It’s been a bit (time has been very tight) so for a recap: My school’s zip code saw a spike in Covid cases early in October and was shut down to in person learning until further notice. I have been teaching remotely from home for the past 3 weeks. Just as I am getting into a good groove and routine with my students and family, we were informed that school would reopen for in person learning next Monday.

Now, don’t get me wrong…I didn’t think the shut down itself would last forever and I’m glad cases in my school’s neighborhood have levelled out and gone down. But. In all of this, I was holding out a bit of hope that our hardheaded mayor would come to his senses and realize what a fool’s errand this is. But no. So I am expected back in the building on Monday. To teach remotely in an empty classroom in a mask, instead of at my craft table at home.

And none of this is the fault of my school administration. My principal must be beside himself at all of this last minute information. I do not envy the position of school leaders, having to navigate the whims of wayward politicians and keep a brave face for their rightfully concerned staffs.

All of these constant changes create hardships for my family and many families. I am obviously willing to do my job. But no one seems to have remembered that when it comes down to it, teaching is just that – a job, and the people putting themselves out there to do it are, well, people. People with concerns for their safety and well being. People with their own families and responsibilities. We are constantly being told to support students’ social/emotional state. Which we do willingly, because we care. But who is looking out for our social/emotional wellbeing?