Teachers Have More Questions than Answers – (during Covid-19)

As we approach the new academic year, teachers everywhere currently have more questions than answers. This pandemic has made returning to a new school year a jumble of very important decisions. And these decisions are. often being made by everyone except teachers.

Here’s a quote I saw online from a concerned teacher; “The problem with teaching as a profession is that every single adult citizen of this country thinks that they know what teachers do. And they don’t. So they prescribe solutions, and they develop public policy, and they editorialize, and they politicize. And they don’t listen to those who do know. Those who could teach. THE TEACHERS.” – Sarah Blaine

More Questions than Answers

Teachers are bombarded with so many questions and concerns lately on Social Media.

Some may be wondering:

• Will I need to prepare in-person lessons or online?
• Or (yikes) BOTH?
• Can I ensure students keep their masks on?
• How should my classroom be set up?
• Do I need to worry about social distancing?
• How do I keep students 6 feet apart?
• Will I be able to ensure everything is sanitized in my classroom?
• Can I create centers this year or not?
• How do I sanitize my classroom library books?
• Someone teacher me how to use Zoom!
• How can I teach virtually while also helping my child with her online struggles?
• Will we be working in person or online this year?
• Do I need to buy my own handsanitizer and table wipes or will the district provide them?
• Should I get an air purifier?
• How do you start the school year virtually with Kindergarten students?
• Can I tell the students apart during the first week with masks on?
• I need to keep from panicking!

Below is a picture of one teacher’s solution to try to keep students from breathing on one another or touching one another. But will districts allow these dividers?

I have written a few other articles about the teaching world in the pandemic era. You can read them here:

A Bittersweet Return to Classrooms + Hope for the New School Year!

Changes During Covid-19 Pandemic Schooling!

Stress Relief for Teachers during Covid-19 Online Instruction

Where to find out answers?

The list below is a screen shot of a list of digital sites that teachers might find useful if the majority of their teaching is online.

I’m sorry – the links below are not active so you will have to find them in another way.

Will you be teaching remotely again?

Many districts have already stated that the beginning of this academic year will be online. I wonder how you start a Kindergarten class online….(sad face here) and I’m sure all the Kindergarten teachers out there are wondering the same thing.

One thing I have to say about teachers is that they are resilient. Most will do whatever they need to do in order for their students to be successful.

I have a FREE downloadable list for you called: “101 Teacher Tips.” You can have it by completing the attached form here.

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But on the flip side, there are many teachers worried about their own safety, and/or the safety of their family members. This has caused them a world of anxiety right now that is justified and understandable.

There really aren’t any easy answers to this situation. And I don’t envy the district people who have to make the tough decisions ahead. I know, as a prior administrator, that no matter what decision is made there will still be people not happy with the decision.

The only thing I can add is – my thoughts and prayers are with teachers and students as they return to school. How ever that my be.

Until Next Time,