7 Tips For Going Back To School During Covid-19
Well, spring break is finally over! We’re coming back to a very unique school year, something that students, families, and teachers have never seen before. We know so many of our students are wondering how best to prepare for it. Should we bring our math books or our zombie survival plans?
We spoke with some teachers in our community and asked them what they think you should keep in mind for the new school year.
Here are 7 tips for going back to school during covid-19
1. Safety comes first
Everyone at your school is putting your safety first. All of the new systems put in place are meant to keep you healthy and allow you to learn. Make sure you do everything you can to keep everyone around you safe so they can keep you safe. We recommend wearing a mask, if you are able, especially in crowded places where you are not able to physically distance from others.
2. Practice good hygiene
Wash your hands frequently and do your best to avoid touching your face with unwashed hands. Good hygiene is the best way to reduce the spread of the virus when you’re in closed spaces. If you’re able, it is a good idea to bring hand sanitizer with you and disinfect your backpack and phone as soon as you get home. Also, before you do anything when you get home, it is best to wash your hands again with soap for at least 20 seconds.
3. You will still get a meaningful education
Many changes are coming and your teachers and tutors are here to ensure you have a quality education. We will ensure you learn everything you need to excel this year and be adequately prepared for next year.
4. Practice self-care
Things are so difficult right now and that’s okay. It’s okay to be sad, to be anxious, angry, frustrated, and every other emotion you might be feeling. Don’t be too hard on yourself for struggling with the new situation. Your emotions are valid and you need to take care of yourself. Even our CEO Clinton will admit when studying Engineering at UBC he called his mom crying a few times, and that was without a pandemic!
Self-care means many things to different people. You may need to sit and cry about what’s happening or practice box-breathing and counting. You may take time to do things you love or call a friend. Talk with your family and teachers about how to best take care of yourself during the pandemic.
5. Be flexible and Go along with the new systems
The new systems may change, but the systems are here to stay for a while. It’s better now to accept the new system, whether that be the pod and quarter systems or merely walking on the right side of the hallway only. If you accept the new systems now and remain flexible to any changes along the way, you will have a much better time this year.
6. Reach out if you need help
Communicate with your support network. If you need anything from your teachers, tutors, or family to succeed this school year, let them know. Everyone wants you to succeed and will work tirelessly to help you achieve your goals.
7. Come together as a community
So this one’s corny, but we love being corny. We’re all in this together! Let’s be kind to each other, rely on others when we need to, help each other when we can, and forgive one another if the stress of this school year gets to us sometimes. Your teachers are working diligently to keep you safe and support you academically, your family and friends are going through this pandemic with you every step of the way, and your tutors can help you with anything you need.
This is going to be a different school year AND a great one. This may end up being the best school year you’ve ever had! Let’s be kind, calm, and safe.
