Posted by Mr. Krebs
Interviews and Pictures by Parker Reed
Have you seen students lack the confidence to interact with one another?
“I think the past 18 months has affected all of us in our daily interactions and comfort with interacting. It will take some time to rebuild that confidence and practice. Getting away from the use of devices as the means for communication is crucial to building that level of confidence and comfort.”
Are group discussions and projects hard to get started because people have lost their social skills?
“I would not say that social skills are lost but out of practice. It has made group discussions more challenging at times. I have a quote on my website that I have mentioned to students: “Any form of growth is going to feel uncomfortable.” It is hard but knowing we are all feeling that can sometimes make us feel more willing to try.”
From what you can tell, are students nervous about being around so many people?
“I think some are for sure but I do know that many more are happy to see not just their friends but other people too. There are of course worries about staying safe and just how loud it can be in larger groups.”
Have you seen that kids are more aware of their own capabilities?
“Yes. In a really amazing way I have seen many students in my classes become more aware of their strengths and weaknesses when it comes to school. We had a beginning of the year reflection where many students had great insight into themselves and goals they have to work towards. I have also seen students who have a lower self esteem of what they can do and what they are capable of. I hope we can all work together to flip this around and build each other up; as with student confidence it will take some readjusting and time too!”
In what ways has COVID been a negative effect on students and how has it been positive?
“Negatives- reliance on technology (school, social media, etc), readjusting to schedule and expectations, baseline stress and anxiety are more common, hesitancy to ask questions or for help
Positives- ability to use technology and resources like email, Google classroom, etc to assist in learning, practice with budgeting time and organization (always room for improvement on these). Self-sufficiency with tasks, more reflective. Sense of excitement to be back in school especially with sports and clubs starting again”
The Maroon 