By Elisheba Moore
Social Isolation…
Social isolation has been the hot topic of the year with our schools closing last spring. Social isolation has created an increase in depression and anxiety among adolescents. When we factor in what our students have lost: sports, extracurricular activities, clubs, the ability to spend the night at a friends house, peer interaction, etc. It is no wonder the mental health of our students was in jeopardy.
Family loss….
Our students are returned to the building for 2021/2022 school year; some without their mom, dad, sister, brother, aunt, grandma/grandpa. It is vital that we all continue to remain emotional sensitive to the needs and behaviors of students as they transitioned full time back into the building.
Our kindergarten students missed their very first introduction into the world of education. Our 5th graders didn’t get to experience their first year in the “Big Land” of middle school. Our freshman had to say goodbye to their first year of being “fresh meat”. Our seniors…their very last year to make an impression on their peers, coaches, and teachers… stripped from them.
Well world…. we are back!
Since CCSD decided that we would go back to full time in-person learning, some students have decided to continue their education online. My advice to educators, students, and parents- have patience. Have patience with yourself, with each other, your students, and their teachers. Remember, we are all in this together and life can be so unpredictable. Continue to be culturally aware and sensitive, understand that we are all dealing with our own internal struggles, give grace as much as you can, and do your best not to dehumanize anyone. Remember that trauma is real and navigating life after trauma takes time to overcome.
Welcome to a post pandemic school year, stay safe.
