Last Tuesday, October 12th, one-quarter of the upper school emerged from their weeks spent in virtual learning for their first day of in-person classes. It was a sunny, crisp Fall day and I was eager to spend it outdoors every opportunity I got. It felt like any other first day of school – with some minor adjustments. Instead of embracing our friends with big hugs, we smiled and waved from six feet apart. When all my friends and I would normally cram ourselves into a single table in the cafeteria, those of us who were on campus ate lunch on the field with plenty of room to spread out. While it was refreshing to be back at school and see some of the rituals as in pre-pandemic times, such as football on the field during lunch, I felt the weight of the pandemic with all the necessary precautions students and teachers had to take, such as wiping down our chairs with disinfectant. It was certainly exciting to take my first official steps on the Senior Grass, which I had been waiting for since freshman year; I only wish I was able to enjoy that rite of passage with more of my grade. I felt safe and comfortable in the classroom because my friends and teachers were all wearing masks, although I missed seeing everyone’s bright smiles. While there were a few technical difficulties connecting the students from home to those in the classroom via Google Meet, it was worth it to be able to engage in my classes in the appropriate setting – at a desk surrounded by other students – rather than in my room alone. I was amazed by the efficiency of administering COVID tests to everyone on campus, and the entire day went smoothly thanks to the enormous effort made by all the teachers and faculty over the summer. I am certain that the hyflex learning will go just as well and I cannot wait to see more of you on campus!
