Many students and teachers across the country are heading back to school. When we think of back to school, we usually think excitement – new school supplies, new friends, new teachers, new grade level, and new beginnings. Some may even think of a new box of crayons and the smell of the crayons when you first open the box. The 2020 back-to-school season will look a bit different this year but – with a few tweaks – it will still bring with it the same excitement and wonder as years past.
Back to School 2020 – For Teachers
Schools are crossing over into unchartered territory as the 2020-2021 school year kicks off. Some schools will remain fully remote, with all learning taking place at home. Other schools are starting the year back full time with students attending face-to-face all five days of the week. And some schools will implement a “hybrid model,” which involves students coming to school a few days a week to learn in person and staying at home a few days a week to learn remotely.
This means that teachers will have to incorporate different methods of education for the 2020/2021 school year. We will learn how to teach online or how to teach in a socially distant classroom. Teachers will try different online learning programs to find what works best for us, our students, and our families. Teachers will discover and create new lesson plans and resources that can be used virtually.
Back to School 2020 – For Students
Students will learn in new ways, and with different schedules. They will need to navigate different logins, and join classroom meets virtually. Some may find that they work better on the couch, while others may need the structure of a table and chair.
It is obvious that we are in another season of newness. Let’s all treat this year like that new box of crayons. Full of possibilities, unknowns, and excitement. Breathe it in! Ready or not – it’s here!
By Erin Kassly
9/4/2020
Erin Kassly is a first-grade teacher in Illinois. She is also the CEO of Erin’s Ink, a teacher resource and accessory company. She received her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education at Illinois State University. Her education experience includes nine years in first grade, two years in Kindergarten and one year in fifth grade. She creates teacher resources for TPT and designs accessories for teachers including bracelets, earrings and stickers.