St. Mary’s community adapts to COVID-19 hybrid learning

By Madeleine Lee

By this point, most everyone is tired of hearing about the COVID-19 pandemic and the stress and uncertainty it has caused. However, St. Mary’s students are, on the whole, grateful that the school has made its best effort to let them gather together. For many, being away from the St. Mary’s community was difficult during distance learning last year, and, although school is still a bit abnormal, the new hybrid learning plan offers an improved experience for students.

Some students told Tatler that they were nervous about the new learning situation or weren’t sure what to expect. 

Jane Chancellor (11) said, “To be honest, my expectations were kind of low for this school year, but the first full week pleasantly surprised me! Yes, privileges have been taken away, and it’s super hard not having my entire grade at school with me, but I’ve come to appreciate the fact that we are even in school, still making it work.” 

Inevitably, the new hybrid learning plan has taken some getting used to as many of the previous systems of St. Mary’s and the schedule have temporarily changed. However, St. Mary’s students have learned to adapt and prepare for each week, no matter what it may look like. 

Erika Ross (10) said,“At the beginning of the school year, I was really nervous about synchronous learning. Over the course of my first week, my fears and anxiety diminished and I settled into a routine.”

Chloe Young (12) said, “After completing the first week at home, my biggest struggle was that I felt like I was constantly receiving emails and having to take in new information. However, we're all just doing the best we can, and it makes sense that there has to be an adjustment period for everyone. I'm optimistic that these issues will naturally subside with practice and adjustment.”

Though it makes keeping up with class work more complicated, students have also enjoyed getting to rest and recuperate at home every other week. 

Ross said, “As much as I liked being at home for a week, I have really enjoyed being back with my friends and teachers. In the end, I think it is way easier to be taught in person rather than over a call or online.” 

Similarly, Young said, “I am so glad that we get to come to school and be together, yet I appreciate having the opportunity to spend some time at home. Overall, I'm glad that I get to spend at least half my time on campus, learning in-person.”

No doubt, hybrid learning will continue to challenge both students and teachers to adapt and learn. As Young said, “COVID-19 has challenged us all, and this strange school year will be a test of our resilience and adaptability.” 

Most students agree: the reality of the situation is that it could be much worse. 

Ross said, “It’s tough, but it is what we have to do to make sure everyone is safe. I can’t wait to be able to see everyone without masks on, but for now I’m just happy to be back on our little corner of Walnut Grove and Perkins.”